Experience Travel and Living Vol. 1 No. 1 by Experience Travel and Living

experiencetravelandliving.net

Vol. 1 // No. 1 // 2014 ISSN 1908-2649

AMORITA more to love CALAGUAS

FOREVER IN MY MIND

‘BLOOMING SAMPALOC’ IN

BULIHAN FESTIVAL THE ILOILO I LOVE

Old MANILA in a new light

PhP200

Amanpulo AAA at 21 Dig your feet in

Dedon

Globe expands service to Europe with new international SIMs Offers more affordable call, text, and surfing services for Italy, UK-bound Filipinos Finding ways for more Filipinos flying to Europe to stay connected to their homeland with affordable call, text, and surfing rates, Globe Telecom recently introduced its newest international SIMs in Italy and the United Kingdom (UK).

P75 for 10 megabytes (MB) of data to power a two-minute video stream, 10 emails with attachments and 100 posts on their social networking accounts. “We aim to provide the best connectivity offers to Filipinos traveling overseas. We are pleased to be able to introduce these Globe services to Pinoys visiting Italy and the UK, making it more affordable to keep in touch with family and friends back in the Philippines,” said Globe Chief Operations Officer

With the Globe local Italy SIM, Filipino travelers can keep in

and Executive Vice President for International and Business

touch with loved ones back home using local rates. For just

Markets Gil Genio.

10 euros or P620, subscribers are allocated with 1GB of mobile data, along with 240 minutes of calls to all networks in

“It is our vision to provide innovative and value-for-money

Italy, valid for 30 days. Using the Globe local Italy SIM, they

communications services that allow Filipinos to maintain

can also call Globe and TM subscribers in the Philippines for

strong ties with their loved ones back home while they are

only seven euro cents or P4.50 per minute. No other mobile

traveling abroad,” said Globe Senior Vice President for Inter-

operator in Italy offers these affordable rates.

national Business Rizza Maniego-Eala.

Globe has also expanded its international footprint to include

The Italy and UK SIMs are available at the Globe booths at

the UK, another dream destination for Filipino travelers, where

the departure areas of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport

they can enjoy 10 pence or just P7.50 for both calls and texts

Terminals 1, 2 and 3. The Globe International SIMs can be

to Globe and TM users in the Philippines as well as to all net-

used with an open line handset. For more information, visit

works in the UK. Mobile data costs only £1 (one UK pound) or

ukglobetel.com and globemobile.it.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

contents EXPERIENCE Travel & Living // Vol. 1 // No. 1 // 2014

Postings

Travel Luxe 14

Amanpulo's "five-star" exclusivity

Barefoot in Dedon

76 ESCAPE SEDA NUVALI

LULJETTA’S TUNE ASEANA CITY HARMONY

Travel Lite 28

The Spellbinding allure of Calaguas

Off-season Baler escapade

4th Bulihan Festival, Sampaloc, Quezon

How to fall in love with Iloilo

The trails and stairways of Kibungan

Cover Story 44

Amorita: not just a little love

Traveling for inspiration

Food from Bohol, with love

Maynila, my Manila

Virtual time travel

Frenzied shopping spree at

The charms of Siem Reap

Tutuban Center Night Market 62

Well-loved ancient Kyoto

Jeju: an island of natural wonder

My Singapore Chicken Rice odyssey

California dreaming: Santa Barbara

Maynila, my Manila

my Manila 52

Living Well 70

Weight management leads

Happy trip with practical Feng Shui tips

to a healthier lifestyle

Encounter 73

Mad about travel

Escape 76

Smooth as 'silk'

Chill at Luljetta’s

Travel in tune with life’s simple

Life in Harmony

Amorita Resort, Panglao Island, Bohol. Photographed by Renjie Tolentino.

experiencetravelandliving.net

Hanging Garden and Spa

Vol. 1 // No. 1 // 2014 ISSN 1908-2649

AMORITA more to love

pleasures at Tune Hotel Aseana City

Daily Chow 86

Seafood dining galore

Feeling 'fiesta' everyday

Calendar of festivities

Directory

CALAGUAS

FOREVER IN MY MIND

‘BLOOMING SAMPALOC’ IN

BULIHAN FESTIVAL THE ILOILO I LOVE

"Traveling is not a luxury anymore, it's now a way of life" 2

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Old MANILA in a new light

PhP200

Amanpulo AAA at 21 Dig your feet in

Dedon

— M A R I A PA Z R . A L BE R T O

}

A whole new world of wondrous wanderings is now at the palm of your hands, or on your desktop.

}

EXPERIENCE TRAVEL AND LIVING is now online! Check us at

experiencetravelandliving.net and see more of where and what we've been into. No visa and passport required.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

publisher'snote

Gut feel always plays an important role in whatever I decide to do in life. This, along with my infinite love and passion for Public Relations, behooved me to run Experience. The new face and flesh, the eLinks, even the feel and texture of every page have all been a product of a long series of consultations with industry friends and unceasing prayers to God Almighty for direction, wisdom and discernment. And so, Experience is given a new life as a travel-companion magazine that will push you to just pack your bags and unleash the traveler in you. I would like to thank my family who has always lent a helping hand and tremendous support in every endeavor I enter, my friends who are always there to understand and likewise provide unceasing support, and to Ms. Gingko Untal for entrusting her "baby," a magazine she nurtured for more than a decade. Thank you for believing that I could turn things around for Experience and make it a "magazine of choice" among Filipinos and foreigners alike. All aboard Experience! Welcome to the 7,107 islands of the Philippines! Welcome to a world of travel and living experience!

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

editor'snote

The happy traveler Vacations are always fun. It's always nice to have some time away from work, and build memories with people close to our hearts. Of course, not all trips are stress-free, but it's always up to the traveler to make the most out of the rare opportunity. Putting together every issue of Experience is always a pleasurable journey. Nothing beats sharing wonderful memories from all those interesting places we visited. Discovering a new destination allows us to gain new friends and nurture new interests. Sometimes we are blessed with an opportunity to see ourselves and the people around us in a new light. This issue is an interesting mix of places and experiences that would amaze every traveler. From rare opulent destinations, to gourmet treats, to fun historical trips, every page is sure to excite your holiday plans for the coming months. Whether you are planning that much-needed break, or celebrating an important occasion, it's always fun to embark on some extraordinary experience. Check out the next few pages, see what suits your fancy. Here's to more fun and adventure!

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

ANA MANANSALA-KEYSER Publisher

TET DEFENSOR Editor-in- Chief

RORY VISCO Managing Editor

ARIES ESPINOSA Online Editor

JERRY MANALILI Creative Director

AJ CEDO Art Director

ANGELA DENILLA Editorial Assistant

APHRODITE CRUZ, DANNY DELA CUESTA, GOLD ENDRIGA, LESTER GOPELA HALLIG MONICA MORALES-IBABAO, GLAIZA LEE, KID ORIT, ROBERT REQUINTINA, RAJAN DELOS SANTOS KEVIN WATSON TSAI, ROSSANA UNSON, ANSON YU Contributing Writers

PATRICK UY ANNABELLE CHAVEZ, RHOY COBILLA, RENJIE TOLENTINO, JORGE WIENEKE Contributing Photographers

HUBERT AGUILA, JR., RUBY ASOY, ELIEL DUMALA, JOY FLORES, DREI SANTIZO Special Projects Group

LYN FAJARDO, JUN FRONDA, BONA FAJARDO, ANTHONY SANTOS Online Team

NILO AGUSTIN Creative Consultant

NANET BONIFACIO Advertising and Sales Director

ALLEN CASTILLO, JUN ESCUADRO, TESS ESCUADRO, BERNARD KEYSER, QUATRO MENDIOLA Sales Group

Experience Travel and Living is published bi-monthly by

MODE DEVI PUBLISHING, INC. Suite 205 Corinthian Executive Regency Sapphire Road, Ortigas Center, San Juan, Metro Manila LILIAN SIA SENGIA, Chief Finance Officer DENNIS SIA, Vice President Call us at (632) 584-5360 Email experiencetravelandliving@gmail.com Visit experiencetravelandliving.net The magazine and its editors assume no responsibility for all manuscripts and photographs submitted. While every reasonable effort is made to verify information, facts and figures, the magazine and its editors assume no responsibility for errors or misrepresentations that may appear in the publication. Opinions expressed in Experience are solely those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by the company and its editors. Printed in the Philippines. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of the magazine may be reproduced in full or in part without prior written permission from the editors.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

contributors

1 GOLD ENDRIGA was a former reporter of The Philippine Star for 13 years before she joined a leading telecoms firm as Manager for External Affairs. Both these jobs helped fuel her passion for writing and exploring old and new places whenever she travels. A proud mommy and happy wife, Gold would be tremendously content to live a life traveling with her family and sharing her experiences with anyone who cares to read about them. 2 ANSON YU loves to walk for long hours on end, loves to write freelance and is, as what he says, an “occasional photography junkie.” He loves everything about Manila, a fascination born out of the very place where he grew up and worked in. This fascination with the glorious past of the city

made him a renowned name when it comes to writing (storytelling, if you want) everything about Manila and its rich history. In 2008, he became part of an organization that regularly holds walking tours in famous Manila spots like Intramuros, Binondo in Chinatown, Divisoria, to name a few. 3 APHRODITE CRUZ is a PR and Marketing Consultant by profession. She is an advocate of local eco-tourism and countryside development. On her spare time, she travels (mostly alone) to rarely visited and often-unexplored places in the country. Ever the restless and elusive backpacker, she is rarely in one place for a very long time, as proven by the mole on her left foot. She loves Jazz and World music, Mediterranean

and Southeast Asian cuisine, Classical literature, and the Philippines, where you're never too far from the highlands or the beach, where you can experience the best of both worlds on a shoestring budget. 4 DANNY DE LA CUESTA (Better known as the Contagious Chef) majored AB Speech and Drama at the University of the Philippines. He operates as a cross-channel designer by training and experience-a fashion designer by profession and culinary design is his career extension. Danny is the President of Consummate Ventures, Inc., a group specializing in the development and promotion of food business. Being a food expert, he had developed promotional recipes for various Consumer Food Brands. As a culinary consultant, he engineered menus,

planned and developed product lines for the culinary business and organized commissary operations for a number of successful food service brands. 5 ANNABELLE CHAVEZ is a recognized maven in the retail industry, having handled global brands like Naturalizer, Florsheim and Bossini, she now helps run Mozu Café at the Linden Suites and at The Fort. Loves to travel and took up photography as a hobby. Several awards later, she was chosen to exhibit her works via the Chasing Light group, a prestigious group of landscape photographers in the country. 6 GLAIZA LEE is a self-proclaimed traveler. Every person she meets, every adventure she does, and every little she experiences shapes

her perception of the world around her. She looks forward to exploring new places, devouring sumptuous dishes, meeting interesting people, and enjoying life to the fullest. 7 ROBERT REQUINTINA was a former assistant Metro section editor for the Manila Bulletin and covered the police beat. After spending several years writing crime and police news stories, he ventured into an entirely different news beat: covering various major beauty pageants in the country, but still covers both the Lifestyle and News sections. 8 KEVIN WATSON TSAI has successfully merged business and pleasure by establishing and managing his start-up travel agency. This young travel bug hopes to host his own travel show

and be appointed consul someday. But for now, he is focusing to expand and diversify his business, and continues to be an advocate of traveling among young adults. 9 ROSSANA UNSON is a contributor to well-known magazines and social news networks. Aside from her love of writing, Rossana is also a mother to two girls, an awardwinning cook (winning first prize at the Adobo Olympics together with her chef-partner and eldest daughter) and very recently the recipient of an Excellence in Social Media Management award presented by Brotzeit Singapore. In addition to spending time with her family, Rossana counts travel, fashion, baking, food, books, movies and theater as her interests, and hopes one day to write a novel.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

POSTINGS Cucina is the fashionable all-day dining restaurant located at the 24th floor which features live open show kitchens featuring specialties from the world’s culinary capitals. Experience bespoke buffets and an original a la carte menu in a stylish setting where attention to detail is supreme. Lung Hin, the contemporary Chinese restaurant serves traditional and authentic Cantonese food and fresh seafood from the expert hands of its Hong Kong chefs. The sleek interiors and expansive lay-out blends in perfect symmetry with exclusive private rooms ideal for a range of intimate affairs. Vu’s, the first of its kind sky bar and

EXPERIENCE A NEW LANDMARK HOTEL: MARCO POLO ORTIGAS MANILA After two decades, a landmark transformation to the Ortigas skyline is finally uncovered— the brand-new Marco Polo Ortigas Manila. At the new Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, embracing Asian warmth with a blend of Western comfort ultimately gives meaning to guests’ travel experience. Luxury is all in the details as expressed through the tasteful selection of art pieces, rich layered finish and unique textures, muted neutral tones, chic interiors and fine furniture, all interpreted in a timeless design concept to create a serene and intimate atmosphere. It is a unique concept that perfectly blends modernity and nobility through design. Certainly, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila will appeal to the new-age traveler, on business or leisure, who appreciates elegant design, avant-garde food and beverage offerings, sophisticated style, modern comforts and essentially the impeccable service accorded to them. PH's first sky hotel Nestled in the vibrant and growing commercial business district of Ortigas in Pasig City is the Philippines' first purposebuilt five-star Marco Polo hotel that offers discerning guests 316 spacious and well-designed rooms and suites, including two Continental Club floors, that accord unrivalled privileges and benefits. Adjudged as the most stunning hotel in the Ortigas district and one of the best among Marco Polo hotels worldwide, it is exclusive for guests who desire a higher level of luxury, further enhanced by its impressive new Continental Club lounge. Located at the 44th floor, the Continental

Club transforms into a stylish venue for business and leisure travelers, where guests can indulge in exclusive services from complimentary daily breakfast, afternoon tea to cocktails. The hotel, a product of sophisticated design and a well-planned development, is acclaimed to be the first sky hotel in the country with dedicated floor areas exclusively for business and recreational use. The floors are accessed via highspeed elevators including the first sky lobby in the Philippines nestled at the 24th level of the hotel tower offering unparalleled views of the cityscape. 4 signature dining outlets The Marco Polo Ortigas Manila complements Manila’s stellar dining destinations with its four signature outlets which will certainly attract rave reviews and legions of regulars. Café Pronto captures casual chic in its form and function, a beacon

for coffee lovers where designer blends and aromatic coffees complement an array of savories, sandwiches, chocolates and a host of freshly baked confections. Specialty teas share the limelight at Café Pronto where dining in or ordering to go will be a daily pleasure.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

AT THE NEW MARCO POLO ORTIGAS MANILA, EMBRACING ASIAN WARMTH WITH A BLEND OF WESTERN COMFORT ULTIMATELY GIVE MEANING TO GUESTS’ TRAVEL EXPERIENCE. lounge on the 45th floor is poised to be a signature Ortigas attraction. Indulge in signature cocktails, wines, spirits, and champagnes with Mediterranean tapas amidst an awe-inspiring vista of the Marikina Valley, the mountain range of Antipolo and the Laguna Lake along the east and the vibrant Ortigas skyline with the world-renowned Manila sunset as a backdrop at the west side. The al fresco advantage is also celebrated with

high-end sounds and a Shisha lounge. Discover the spectacular as soon as you go sky high at Vu’s where dining al fresco or indoors will be an event in itself. Spectacular venues The Marco Polo Grand Ballroom features all the design elements to celebrate grand occasions or to host corporate events and can accommodate up to 500 guests, plus the eight function rooms can accommodate 250 guests. Moreover, experience the innovative design of the Connect Lounge, a gallery with an integrated business center that offers guests a contemporary work space with a social vibe. The entire 22nd floor of the hotel tower is focused on guests’ total wellness with its state-of-the-art fitness center, spa and an indoor infinity pool aptly named “Flow.” Complimentary highspeed Wi-Fi internet service is available in the entire hotel to provide savvy business and leisure travelers seamless connectivity for work or play. The first Marco Polo Hotel to open in the country’s capital signals a whole new dimension in showcasing the renowned brand of Asian hospitality embodied in the pioneering spirit of Marco Polo. There is no doubt that with what it offers to discriminating travelers, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila will certainly live up to its name. For more information contact (632) 720-7777 or book online via www. marcopolohotels.com or email: manila @marcopolohotels.com. Visit facebook. com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila or follow @MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.

Triple O’s by White Spot hits the right spot

Love Japanese food even more through the Wafu Izakaya Festival Experience a whole new way of enjoying Japanese food with the launch of the Wafu Izakaya Festival at Wafu Japanese Restaurant in Greenhills, San Juan City. Izakaya, a Japanesestyle pub slash street food festival, was held just right outside Wafu’s doorsteps to offer foodies the chance to try popular Japanese

bar chow in the fun and informal setting that many have come to enjoy. The Izakaya is very much a part of Japanese culture, says event organizer, Mavie Ungco, where a lot of Japanese, young and old, like to kick back and relax after work and unwind with their friends and colleagues over good food and drinks. A Japanese izakaya is typically noisy, informal and fun, and this is the same experience Wafu introduced through the Wafu Izakaya Festival, the first festival of its kind to be organized in Manila. During its dinner service, Wafu transformed the area outside into an open-air Izakaya, where a casual setup of wooden tables and chairs provided

pubgoers with comfortable seating that complemented the food carts and booths where chefs prepared food orders right in front of diners. All food items such as yakitori, kushiage, kushiyaki, sushi and sashimi are prepared upon order; thus, all snacks are served fresh or piping hot, while traditional Japanese menu boards and paper lanterns added to the authentic Japanese pub ambience. As in any Izakaya, the pub fare at Wafu Izakaya is reasonably priced and portions are smaller but filling. Diners chose from a selection of plates of sushi and sashimi, maki, tempura, grilled (yakitori) and deep-fried items and other Japanese specialties. Pub Fare at the

or your choice of sauce before it is served, while kushiage has a heavier batter than tempura, making it a more filling snack-on-a-stick. Kushiyaki choices included chicken meat (breast, thigh, liver or tail), pork belly, shiitake mushroom, beef tenderloin and salmon belly. Of the kushiage items, try the skewers of chicken, pork belly, prawns, scallops, zucchini and quail eggs. To ramp up the fun, other popular traditional fare were also served, like Okonomiyaki, or Japanese-style cabbage and meat pancakes, as well as gyoza, tofu steak and barbecues of grouper, snapper and salmon jaws. Ungco says the vibe of a Japanese Izakaya will

Festival is best paired with either a glass of cold Asahi beer or sake. And many items are not the usual Japanese fare served in typical Japanese restaurants. For instance, Kushiyaki is not your typical barbecue. Skewers of meat, seafood or vegetables are grilled plain and seasoned with salt

present Filipino diners with a new, more exciting side to Japanese cuisine, one that is casual and entertaining. Wafu Izakaya Festival is open from 6 p.m. onwards at Wafu Japanese Restaurant in Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan City, Metro Manila. For more details, call Wafu at (0917) 877-0101.

or any Filipino who has ever spent some time in Canada, Triple O’s by White Spot is surely a familiar name. As Canada’s very first drive-in restaurant (established by founder Nat Bailey in 1928), its place in history has already been assured; but it is their legendary burger that propels the brand into iconic status. It is said that the name “Triple O” came from the shorthand language of the drive-in service attendants—otherwise known as “carhops”—manning the immensely popular Canadian restaurant. When guests at the drive-in chose from mayonnaise and relish, their order slips were printed with Xs and Os. Three Os on the slip meant plenty of everything, and that’s exactly what Triple O’s by White Spot serves on their menu. Triple O’s’ claim to have the “sauciest, juiciest, tastiest, bestest burgers around” may seem hyperbole, but the proof is in the pudding—or in this case, the patty. Triple O’s elevates the simple concept of the burger with their premium-grade 100% Canadian beef patties. Numerous gourmands agree that Canadian beef is a few notches superior to American beef due to Canada’s strict screening systems on beef standards and food safety. Likewise, Triple O’s is well known for their meticulous grilling technique, which optimizes the essence and flavor of the beef. And flavor is something that Triple O’s knows intimately well: its legendary (and highly secret) “Triple O” has achieved an almost cult-like following around the world. Many have theorized as to what makes the “Triple O” sauce so delicious, as well as multiple attempts to approximate its taste. All, however, conclude that there simply is no way to improve on the taste of the original. Triple O’s offers this unstoppable burger combination in a dizzying array of styles and variations, which can come a la carte or in combo meals of fries and a drink. Enthusiastic customers can even overload their burgers with extra toppings, from a grand selection of cheeses, bacon, and grilled mushrooms. Triple O’s also caters to the popular local preference for fish or chicken burgers, perfectly grilling these patties to a crunchy, juicy, and flavorful delight. For those who have a hankering for something other than a fantastic burger, Triple O’s also has chicken, pasta, and fish dishes. To cap off an excellent meal, the hand-scooped Triple O’s milkshake is the only way to go. Made with premium vanilla ice cream in the classic flavors, their milkshake and sundaes end your Triple O’s experience on a sweet note. But the best news is that this fantastic taste of Canada has finally opened in Manila, with the first Triple O’s branch located at the third level of SM Megamall’s Atrium. The grand opening enjoyed full attendance from VIPs and other special guests, led by the Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines, Hon. Neil Reeder, SweetSpot Philippines, Inc. (the local partner of White Spot) Chairman Richard Yee, White Spot owner Peter Toigo and President and CEO Warren Erhart. The affair was also graced by Mandaluyong Mayor Benhur Abalos, Trade Commissioner Angel Cachuela and Public Affairs Officer Carlo Figueroa from the Canadian Embassy, SM Supermalls (SCMC) President Annie Garcia, Goldilocks founders Milagros Leelin-Yee and Clarita LeelinGo, Canadian Chamber of Commerce President Julian Payne, and media personalities Dingdong Dantes and Tessa Prieto-Valdez. In a market that is somewhat saturated with American fast food brands, it will definitely be a delicious experience to see what the Great White North brings to the (dining) table.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

POSTINGS He used raw concrete floor to represent the earth, and brown wood for the trees. The silk leaves were hand-painted in warm reds, orange and subtle hints of plum. At the forefront are the much sought-after Cobonpue chairs, a variation of the iconic Yoda chairs. The chairs, couches and tables are made of raw rattan poles and maple wood in soft and, modified from an earlier Cobonpue design to fit the restaurant interiors. The chairs are complimented by soft cushions in muted tones of taupe. A magical world Executing the design was not without its challenges, Cobonpue reveals. “Designing restaurants is challenging because you have to balance the design intent with the practicalities of running a business,” he states. “In a restaurant like Akira, we have to maximize the floor area for seating without making it look crowded. The use of natural woods, raw concrete and soft, earthy tones calm the senses so that even at full capacity, the restaurant still looks spacious.” Cobonpue’s team also ran into a roadblock when the building owners had to install a new air-conditioning system that dropped the ceiling height dramatically, so “we had to make last-hour adjustments to the arrangement of the tree branches and leaves,” Cobonpue says. Akira fulfills what he deems are the tenets of good design: form and function. “I think the interiors translate my belief that the encounter of beauty produces the element of peace. I hope people feel that they are stepping into a magical world, even for a fleeting moment. I want their hearts to flutter with the experience; and I hope they understand the message behind it, about finding beauty in unexpected places.” Akira honors the renowned designer by renaming its unagi kyu maki as the “Cobonpue Roll.” Softshell crab, Japanese cucumber and tobanjan mayo rolled in sushi rice and white sesame seeds then topped

Leaves in the Wind

Kenneth Cobonpue recreates a forest for sushi and teppanyaki diners Designer Kenneth Cobonpue was inspired by images of leaves dancing in the wind, an idea that stuck to his mind coming from his recent trip to Japan. The images eventually became the back drop of Akira: The Art of Sushi and Teppanyaki, a forerunner among the new wave of teppanyaki restaurants located at the Alphaland City Club in Makati. The restaurant is one of the brands under the SumoSam Restaurant Concepts group. Cobonpue was approached by SumoSam group co-founder Marvin Agustin, a friend and long-time design client, and Cobonpue’s fellow Cebuano Gilbert Go, President of Golden PotBelly Corporation. The owners wanted to transform the restaurant's personal dining experience into an art form. Akira's postmodern interiors is a marriage of traditional and contemporary elements. “The owners were willing to try new things and were open to many ideas not associated with the usual decor found in Japanese restaurants, so I took up the challenge,” Cobonpue narrates. For Akira, the designer envisions an abstract forest with a canopy of blown leaves, suspended in space. "The design mimics the feel of a forest—one is surrounded by trees with branches that pierce the sky and leaves that billow in the wind—which is “akin to discovering a magical and secret place known only to you,” explains Cobonpue.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

"I THINK THE INTERIORS TRANSLATE MY BELIEF THAT THE ENCOUNTER OF BEAUTY PRODUCES THE ELEMENT OF PEACE. I HOPE PEOPLE FEEL THAT THEY ARE STEPPING INTO A MAGICAL WORLD." —Kenneth Cobonpue with a blow-torched unagi teriyaki and finished with teriyaki wasabi mayo, ebiko (fish roe) and spring onions, the roll is a personal favorite of Kenneth Cobonpue. The Cobonpue-designed Akira is located at Alphaland Makati Place, Malugay St. cor Ayala Avenue Ext., Makati City. For reservations, contact (632) 808-6224 or (0927 ) 220-4103. Check them out in Facebook, www.facebook.com/AkiraAMP or email your inquiries at akiramakatiplace@gmail.com.

Maxims Hotel awarded Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor Resorts World Manila’s (RWM) all-suite Maxims Hotel has been awarded the 2014 Certificate of Excellence by popular and prestigious international travel website TripAdvisor. The win signifies that Maxims Hotel has consistently earned outstanding feedback from TripAdvisor travelers from all around the world. RWM’s chief hotel operations officer Scott Sibley said that earning this recognition from a website such as TripAdvisor is an important achievement for Maxims Hotel. He added that since today’s travelers use the Internet to research and book their accommodations, there is no better endorsement than a positive review shared on the TripAdvisor website by happy customers. According to TripAdvisor, the prestigious award is based on the quality of reviews and opinions earned on TripAdvisor over the past year. RWM’s Maxims Hotel consistently earned a four out of five rating among travelers who share their reviews and experience on the website whose content is predominantly user-generated. For more information on Maxims Hotel, call (632) 908-8000 local 7770 or visit reservation@rwmanila.com.

TRAVEL LUXE EXPERIENCE Travel & Living

Vol. 1 // No. 1 // 2014

14 AMANPULO’S "five-star" exclusivity 22 Barefoot in DEDON

Beds and carved panels fit for a king

Nature is the perfect backdrop for Dedon’s stylish pieces. The island is actually a showroom for the internationally renowned furniture brand, an “outdoor living lab for bringing our barefoot dreams to life.”

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travelluxe

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

AMANPULO’S "FIVE-STAR" EXCLUSIVITY By TET DEFENSOR

Long before all these high-end exclusive destinations came to be, the world’s rich and famous would quietly fly into the country and experience the beauty of Amanpulo, located in Pamalican, Palawan. Opened in 1993, the 21-year-old island resort is still the benchmark of "five-star" exclusivity.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

This high-priced tropical paradise is the favorite playground of European royalty and Hollywood celebrities. Imagine the likes of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, Robert de Niro, Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Claudia Schiffer, Jude Law and many others, traveling all the way to Palawan just to enjoy the sun and sea. High-powered A-listers can look forward to letting their hair down in Amanpulo because the destination is the ultimate in beach privacy. Guests can fly in and out in secrecy. The resort has its own boarding lounge and airstrip. They are picked up from the airport and are brought to the private hangar for the 70-minute Manila-Pamalican flight. When they get to the island, they are pampered by their assigned guest relations representative. Most of the firsttimers are surprised that the reps immediately address them by their name and not the usual “ma’am” and “sir.” The resort goes through great lengths to impress their visitors. The guest relations representatives act like their fairy godmothers in the island who utter “your wish is my command.” Apart from the first-class amenities that go with their casita or villa accommodations, all other needs can be conveyed to the reps. The latter will make sure that all needs are addressed immediately. A guest, for instance, specifically asked for a cocktail with “just a little” amount of alcohol. She was surprised that her

instructions were strictly followed every time she asked for an alcoholic beverage throughout her stay. From the airstrip, they are brought to the resort onboard individual golf carts. They are given a quick tour of the facility before they are brought to their villa or casita. The golf carts are parked outside their door in case they wish to explore the island on their own. Amanpulo is exclusive to guests. Not even individuals who arrive via their private yachts are allowed to enter the resort. High-level security and privacy are applied at all times. Even when all casitas and villas are fully-occupied, guests will not have a chance to see each other, much less know who are the VIPs currently in the island. The resort has common areas like the restaurants and the beach club, but A-listers hardly leave their well-appointed villas. Amanpulo has 40 casitas structured like the traditional bahay kubo which is made from local indigenous material. The casitas are located by the beach, by the hillside or on top of a tree. Guests can choose to wake up to the picturesque view of the sun, the quiet sea or the nearby islands. Each unit opens to a sun deck, with a private path that leads to the beach. The houses are spaced far from each other, with lush greens in between. Visitors can enjoy the feeling of peace and total seclusion. Amanpulo also has private villas for those who prefer a quiet world of their own, at least while they are relaxing in

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

A guest, for instance, specifically asked for a cocktail with “just a little” amount of alcohol. She was surprised that her instructions were strictly followed every time she asked for an alcoholic beverage throughout her stay.

MANULIFE AFFLUENCE INCOME EMPOWERS POLICYOWNERS TO MOBILIZE THEIR WEALTH Manulife Philippines introduces Manulife Affluence Income, a first-of-its-kind product that aims to give policyholders regular payouts from their investments while providing them with exposure to the growth and capital appreciation potential of the Philippine financial markets. It launched this single-pay variable life insurance product in the market in line with its commitment to provide customers with more flexible solutions to meet each family’s distinct needs. “Depending on policyholders’ needs and preferences, they can choose when to start receiving payouts and how frequently these payouts are provided for them to use as they see fit,” said Ryan Charland, Group President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “They also have the option to automatically reinvest the payouts back to the fund to increase the potential for capital appreciation of their investments.” Manulife Affluence Income is linked to the Peso Target Income and Peso Target Distribution funds which invest in a diversified portfolio of peso fixed income and peso equity investments based on an active asset allocation strategy designed to provide regular payouts while maintaining the potential for capital appreciation and limiting the risk of capital erosion. The Peso Target Income and Peso Target Distribution funds have a target payout of up to 3 percent per annum 1 or 0.25 percent a month. Both funds are managed by the Manulife Philippines Investments team that is part of a global network of interconnected investment professionals under Manulife Asset Management, the armof ofManulife ManulifeFinancial FinancialCorp. Corp. investment management2arm The local investment team is supported by Manulife Asset Management’s Portfolio Solutions Group (PSG), a global team with over 20 experienced investment professionals specializing in asset allocation portfolio management and 2 having more than US$112 billion in assets under management management.2. The PSG provides non-discretionary asset allocation advisory services to support the funds’ investment objective, which aims to deliver the target payout while limiting the risk of capital erosion. Sarah Lu, Head of Asset Allocation, Asia, for the global PSG team, explained: “The funds’ strategic allocation is 85 percent to peso fixed income and 15 percent to peso equity. However, the actual allocation could shift to reflect changing market conditions. The maximum allowable allocation to equities is 30 percent.” Lu also shared her outlook on the Philippine market: “Given robust economic growth, strong fiscal and external positions and resilient domestic demand, we are positive on the Philippines market for 2014. While inflation has increased of late, we believe that this is not a sign of economic overheating but rather the result of increased productive capacity and higher fiscal investment. Nevertheless, recent signs of monetary tightening can be seen as a precursor of a policy rate hike which could push bond yields up across the curve. Against this economic backdrop, we are currently positive on Philippine equities as we expect this asset class to be supported by a combination of positive corporate earnings growth and valuation expansion.” “The Peso Target Income Fund and Peso Target Distribution Fund aim to address the needs of investors who are seeking a liquid cash flow generating investment that has higher earning potential than time deposits or money market funds and who are looking to receive recurring payouts upon retirement,” said Aira Gaspar, CFA, Chief Investment Officer of Manulife Philippines. “The funds offer clients with an investment solution that is designed to provide regular cash flows while retaining the potential for capital appreciation.” Policyholders looking to invest at least PhP 100,000 can avail of the front-end loaded Manulife Affluence Income Flex, which places the remainder of the premium, after deducting the necessary upfront charges to the Peso Target Income Fund. Those looking to invest at least PhP500,000 can choose the back-end loaded Manulife Affluence Income Max, which places the premium, without deductions in the Peso Target Distribution Fund, subject to appropriate charges if the policyholder withdraws within five years. 1

The 3.00% p.a. payout is not guaranteed. It is applied on the net asset value per unit of the funds on the relevant cut-off dates. Changes in investment cycle may result in payouts being taken out from the principal amount. 2

As at 31 December 2013.

To learn more about Manulife Affluence Income, call Customer Care at (02) 884-7000 (for Metro Manila) or contact a Manulife financial adviser at any of over 30 Manulife branch offices nationwide, e-mail phcustomercare@manulife.com or visit www.manulife.com.ph. On social media, like myManulife on Facebook, follow @ManulifePH on Twitter, EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014 follow @myManulife on Instagram and watch myManulifePH on YouTube.

the island. Those staying in the villas can enjoy the services of a butler and a chef. For honeymooners, the villa staff can prepare a romantic dinner for two, by the beach surrounded with candles, complete with musicians serenading the couple with their favorite love songs. On certain occasions, the chef can also set up lunch at the sandbar, right in the middle of the ocean, or a barbecue dinner in front of your villa. Those who wish to dine with other guests can go to the main restaurant at the clubhouse, which serves Asian and continental cuisine and fresh seafood. Lunch and snacks are also served at the beach house. The entire Pamalican island is occupied by Amanpulo. This "five-star" facility rests on clear waters filled with interesting marine creatures. During low tide, divers can even witness baby sharks chasing their prey, and divers have reportedly seen orioles, sea eagles and kingfishers. Green turtles are also known to build their nest in the island and at night the females return to lay their eggs. Dolphins and whales have also been spotted from the sandbar. The island offers a lot of activities for hotel guests. Those who wish to snorkel or scuba dive can marvel at the reefs under the clear waters. The reefs are home to the parrot fish, manta rays and Hawksbill turtles. In case visitors have the yearning to learn how to dive, they can can inquire from the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dive instructors. Windsurfers can definitely ride with the wind if they choose to stay in the island from December to April, while those who wish to sail can ride the boats around Pamalican. Weekend adventurers can arrange for an island-hopping cruise, while those who want to stay behind can follow the bush paths and explore the island on foot. After a fun-filled day, guests can enjoy a relaxing massage, aromatherapy or beauty treatment in the comforts of their casitas, or check out the Aman Spa located at the hillside. The tranquil sanctuary is composed of several pavilions with a relaxing view of the Sulu Sea. The spa valet can pick up the guests from the rooms, or they can drive their carts to the hillside location. The reception pavilion has a lounge, retail area and a salon or nail and hair treatments while the treatment rooms have soaking tubs, steam shower and dressing area. The lower level has steam rooms for male and female guests and a therapeutic cold pool. Guests who wish to continue their fitness routine while in the island can join the classes at the yoga and meditation pavilions or visit the gym and Pilates studio. The instructors offer private and group classes.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

High-powered A-listers can look forward to letting their hair down in Amanpulo, because the destination is the ultimate in beach privacy.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travelluxe

barefoot in

dedon

If you are visiting Dedon Island for the first time, it is highly recommended to kick off your shoes when you set foot in the island. There is a flirty thrill as you press your feet on the soft sand as your eyes marvel on the beauty of the island paradise.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

ature is the perfect backdrop for Dedon’s stylish pieces. The island is actually a showroom for the internationally renowned furniture brand, an “outdoor living lab for bringing our barefoot dreams to life,” according to their website. Dedon island of Siargao is a testament of the gold mine that sustained the successful outdoor furniture business. Dedon started in Germany, home of former athlete Bobby Dekeyser, goal keeper of the soccer team Bayern Munich. While recovering from surgery, Bobby began assessing his post-soccer options. He was retiring from sports, and was planning to go into business. He wanted to utilize a certain type of plastic fiber which was developed by his uncle. The material was supple and weatherproof, the right material for outdoor home pieces. During a tradeshow in Cologne, Dekeyser was drawn towards the rattan furniture display of a supplier from Cebu. He spoke to the business owner about the plastic material

that he developed with his uncle. Within a few weeks Bobby flew to Cebu from Germany, carrying 47 kg of fiber. The successful meeting of the minds gave birth to the Dedon furniture brand, with fiber from Germany and craftsmanship by the talented weavers of Cebu. After a few months Bobby relocated his entire family to Cebu. In 2010, he successfully bought a friend’s property in Siargao. For years, Bobby often found solace in the island, in between his business meetings and hectic factory trips. After constant prodding, he was able to persuade his friend to sell a large portion of the island. He renamed it Dedon. The island destination is not your usual resort. Guests are not greeted by attendants at the front desk. In fact it does not have a front desk. Instead travelers are welcomed by an enchanting tropical paradise, with lush foliage leading to the outdoor living room, pool, bar and stylish cabanas designed by French designers Jean-Marie Massaud and Daniel Pouzet. The destination served as the company’s

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

testing ground for its new designs with the picturesque natural backdrop inspiring the brand’s creators. And amid the worldwide clamor for their unique designs, nearly every piece of furniture in the island was created exclusively for the international destination. The villas are surrounded by gardens, with private porches allowing guests to savor the outdoor while enjoying utmost privacy. All units have sleeping and lounging areas, with resting spaces that can be converted to a sleeping area. Beds are adorned with specially designed mosquito nets, for a cozy and homey feel. The highlight of the experience is the refreshing view, the natural elements that surround the island—fresh air, clear waters, thick mangroves and countless peaceful moments. The tribute to nature does not end with the view. The entire resort makes use of sustainable local materials like woven coconut leaf for the roof, supported by bamboo and yakal wood. The beaming bar by the beach was woven entirely by hand, by Dedon’s talented weavers from Cebu. Tourists will also enjoy lounging inside the famous Dedon Nestrests. Designed by Pouzet and Fred Frety, the huge cocoon hangs from the tree and moves according to the direction

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

The destination served as the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s testing ground for its new designs with the picturesque natural backdrop inspiring the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creators.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

of the wind. The womblike structure is lined with a cushion with lots of pillows for a cozy outdoor experience. Sustainability is religiously practiced in every area. “Our chef only uses food found locally and creates menus around the seasonal produce available. We use solar panels for each villa’s hot water, we do not use plastic bottles but rather metal canisters to reduce our waste, all our laundry and bathroom amenities are organic,” explained general manager Morag Koerner. Most of the ingredients are sourced from the island’s organic farm. “We have a fruit, vegetable and herb farm, as well as pigs, ducks and quails which eat the leftover food from our kitchen. The compost is used in the farm as fertilizer.” For adventure seekers, the island has facilities for sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddling from the beachfront or mangroves. Guests can go island-hopping, waterskiing, snorkeling and knee-boarding. Surfers can dance with the waves at nearby Cloud 9, while diving, Suhotan cave exploration and deep-sea fishing can also be arranged. At Dedon it's all about getting close to nature. The only time you will be needing your footwear is when you leave the island. Indeed, there is a whole new world ahead for the barefoot traveler. —TDV

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

TRAVELLite EXPERIENCE Travel & Living

28 32 34 38 42

Vol. 1 // No. 1 // 2014

The spellbinding allure of Calaguas Off-season Baler escapade 4th Bulihan Festival, Sampaloc, Quezon How to fall in love with Iloilo The trails and stairways of Kibungan

Amorita

The infinity pool, the perfect foreground to the Bohol Sea

NOT JUST A LITTLE LOVE

59 THE CHARMS OF SIEM REAP

62 WELL -LOVED ANCIENT K YOTO

64 JEJ U: A N ISL A ND OF NATURA L WONDER ODYS SEY

66 MY SINGAPORE CHICKEN RICE

68 CALIFORNIA DREAMING: SANTA BARBARA

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite By Aphrodite S. Cruz

The spellbinding allure of

Calaguas

Even from miles away, out in the ocean, with only its mountainous silhouette and long stretch of pristine white sand visible to the naked eye, it was already a sight bound to be immortalized in oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

1 Tinaga, the most famous among the Calaguas group of islands 2 The ocean is a sight to behold 3 Picture perfect paradise 4 New friends in the island

When you just parted ways with your boyfriend of six years, traveling solo as a female suddenly turns into a good idea. Travel is the best form of therapy, after all. So, on the evening of my 26th birthday, I boarded a bus in Pasay bound for Daet, Camarines Norte, Bicol. Upon arriving in Daet 12 hours later, I rode a tricycle right outside the bus terminal going to Vinzons Port. I love watching towns wake up, and the 30-minute tricycle ride to the port didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem so long. After buying some island essentials and renting a tent at the port, I rode a medium-size fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boat going to Tinaga Island, the most famous among the Calaguas group of islands. On the boat, I met a group of friends who would later adopt me and become my companions throughout my trip. We caught sight of the island after three long hours navigating the ocean and its mad waves. As Vladimir Nabokov would say, it was indeed love at first sight, at last sight, at ever and ever sight. It was a vision to behold. Even from miles away, out in the ocean, with only its mountainous silhouette and long stretch of pristine

3 4

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

5 Fresh catch of the day 6 Soft powdery white sand beach 7 Wake up to crystal clear water and unspoiled resources 8 Traveler’s sole companion 9 The island’s warm shower of sunlight

I felt genuine happiness and contentment just lying on the sand, breathing in lungful after lungful of sweet, fresh air, feeling the warm shower of sunlight on my skin.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

white sand visible to the naked eye, it was already a sight bound to be immortalized in one’s memory; a sight so beautiful and beguiling that it sent a stab of pain right through my heart knowing I’m only staying for a few days. Standing on the island, mouth agape and sand between my toes, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. I was awed by the grandeur that enveloped me from all angles. I have found my happy place. Here, I could just pass the time of day without a single iota of care for worldly matters. Stepping foot on a beautiful

place like this makes one realize how vast the world is and how minuscule we and our problems are in the grand scheme of things. I felt genuine happiness and contentment just lying on the sand, breathing in lungful after lungful of sweet, fresh air, feeling the warm shower of sunlight on my skin, and shifting between watching various cloud formations drift by and reading a book under the shade of a tree. I felt life surging through my veins as I swam through clear waters, trekked verdant mountains, interacted with island locals, and exchanged

Calaguas solo trip budget breakdown for two nights, three days ITEM

AMOUNT

Bus from Pasay to Daet, Bicol via DLTB

550.00

Tricycle from Daet Terminal to Vinzons Port

50.00

Boat Ride from Vinzons Port to Tinaga Island, Calaguas Group of Islands

800.00

Hut rental

300.00/day

Tent rental

200.00/day

Environmental fee

100.00

Food and drinks

500.00

Tricycle from Vinzons Port to Daet Terminal

50.00

Bus from Daet, Bicol to Pasay via DLTB

550.00

GRAND TOTAL

3,600.00

stories before a makeshift bonfire under the full moon with a bunch of strangers I just met on the boat. Be a traveler with insatiable curiosity. Surrender. If you are curious and interested, the world will reward you with remarkable stories to bring home. I left Manila with an unsettling fear in my heart, but as traveling has a way of altering perceptions and healing a soul in distress, I was never the same upon my return. Somehow, my worldview has broadened; somehow, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a better version of myself; and best of all, somehow, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m seven friends richer.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

OFF-SEASON

here are no majestic coconut trees, no picnic huts, or even lounge chairs for lazy beach bums. What will greet you is a huge expanse of clean, soft grayish sand and rolling waves that invite novice surfers for a ride. Baler is known worldwide for its huge surfing waves that seem to come alive! Sabang Beach is at the forefront of Baler, the provincial capital of Aurora. White Beach in Boracay could have been just as picturesque and peaceful, if it was not overtaken by commercial establishments. The area around Sabang Beach was well planned. All establishments are kept away from the main beach by a tastefully done boardwalk, thus, tourists can enjoy the serenity and beauty of the place without the persistent touts hawking their goods and services. There are numerous accommodations along the boardwalk and beyond, with prices ranging from a few hundred pesos

BALER ESCAPADE By Gold Endriga

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

to several thousands a night. The more luxurious ones, like the newly-built Costa Pacifica where we stayed for three days cost P7,000 per night, triple sharing in a junior suite. It includes buffet breakfast and a stunning view of the beach, with the sun rising right from our bed. Travelers troop to Baler to surf and Sabang Beach is only the starting point for newbies. Hard core surfers usually head out to the challenging and dangerous Cemento Beach which boasts of waves up to 14 feet high during the October to March season. Several other beaches dot the shoreline of Baler and would be exciting to explore for windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, and sea caving. After having our fill of the Pacific Ocean, we left the confines of our resort and explored the quaint little town of Baler. Costa Pacifica graciously gave us a tour onboard their golf cart although we were told that a tricycle ride from one

point to another only costs P12. We wanted to check out the Museo de Baler, unfortunately, it was closed for renovation so we went instead to the replica of Doña Aurora’s House which is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm for a voluntary donation. Doña Aurora, wife of President Manuel L. Quezon, died in an ambush by the Hukbalahap in 1949, thus, the province of Aurora was created in her honor. Almost across the house is the historic Baler Catholic Church originally constructed in 1611 and was made popular in the movie “Baler” starring Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales. The movie is a love story between a Filipina and a Spanish soldier set during the Siege of Baler in 1898. The Spanish troops took refuge inside the church until they finally surrendered to the American forces. The eroding old church was renovated in 1939 through the initiative of Doña Aurora.

There are no majestic coconut trees, no picnic huts, or even lounge chairs for lazy beach bums. What will greet you is a huge expanse of clean, soft grayish sand and rolling waves that invite novice surfers for a ride. After our short cultural tour, it was time to indulge in the Filipinos’ most-loved activity— pasalubong shopping. Buying souvenirs is practically a must for anyone going on an out-of-town trip as it is almost a crime to go home empty-handed. We were supposed to drop by the public market but our driver insisted to bring us to Nanay Pacing which sells quality Baler products. Baler can be reached from Manila through a six-hour drive along North Luzon Expressway, all the way to the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, passing by the scenic Nueva Ecija-

Aurora Highway. Alternatively, Genesis Transport offers hourly departure to Baler from its Cubao terminal starting at 3 am for P404 pesos one way regular fare. The Joy Bus Executive Coach of Genesis provides more comfortable travel for P695 per way. Baler has its own charm during the lean months but I can’t wait to go back when the waves are at their peak to catch some world-class surfers in action. 1 Sabang Beach at the forefront of Baler 2-5 Exploring the quaint town of Baler would inevitably lead to Museo de Baler, Doña Aurora House, and Baler Catholic Church

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

4th Bulihan Festival

By RORY VISCO

SAMPALOC, QUEZON

Spirits were high as residents of Sampaloc town in Quezon Province laid the groundwork for the 4th Bulihan Festival. Now on its fourth year, the Bulihan Festival celebrates the ingenuity and expertise of Sampalukins—that’s how residents of Sampaloc are called—in making products out of buri. This is all thanks to Mayor Emmanuel Torres, who vigorously campaigned to highlight the Bulihan Festival. The town’s amiable and friendly mayor said that the festival has been ongoing for many years now, but it was only in 2010 when he finally decided to give the local craftsmanship full blast promotion. “This is something I want to highlight in our municipality: the importance of the Bulihan Festival. Through this festival, we give jobs to our residents, and we are able to promote tourism. There’s so much fun and

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

excitement here. I hope they will visit us soon. Discover Sampaloc now," Torres declared.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony

The formal opening of the 4th Bulihan Festival was led by no less than Mayor Torres himself. The 4-day festival kicked off with an exhibit and selling of “Durong Deli” (“durong” meaning delicious), and showcased the town’s version of native delicacies like sapin-sapin, pili candies/pastillas, banana cakes, achara, peanut butter, special peanuts, suman, espasol, to name some.

“Palos” cooking contest

One of the awaited activities of the 4-day festival was the native “Palos Cooking Contest.” “Palos,” Sampaloc’s term for native eel which are caught in Maapon River,

is often brought by Sampalukins as a present to somebody being asked of a favor. The “madulas” is associated with a saying that if it is given as a gift to a person being asked of a favor, the request will be easily granted. Fourteen barangays through the town’s Rural Improvement Club participated in this exciting and truly one-of-a-kind cooking show. The cooking skills and creativity of the Sampalukins were once again showcased with

“There’s so much fun and excitement here. I hope they will visit us soon. Discover Sampaloc now!” —Mayor Emmanuel Torres

everything and anything that can possibly be done with the “palos.” Spicy, sweet, saucy, “ginataan,” “ginisa,” baked, steamed, fried, what have you! It was not an easy task for the judges who deliberated long and hard until finally, the winning recipe came from Barangay Ibabang Owain, with a dish called “Steamed Palos.”

Payas contest

It was like entering a fairlyland full of grandeur as all 46 houses that joined the “Payas” contest were adorned with beautiful buri products. This was the Bulihan Festival—an impressive showcase of the main product and source of livelihood of the gentle people of the municipality of Sampaloc, Quezon mainly made out of “buri,” a large palm tree noted for its strong leaves that can be made into various products

like bags and other native accessories. The townsfolk of Sampaloc call this Payas, where houses’ exteriors along the parade route were decorated with colorful buri and other indigenous materials. “Blooming Sampaloc” is the theme for this year’s festival. The first prize received P25,000, the second P20,000, and the third P15,000. Three

special awards worth P10,000 each were awarded, while 40 consolation prize winners got P2,000 each.

Parada ng bayan

Exciting. Colorful. Creative. Uniquely Sampaloc. These are the words to best describe the “Parada ng Bayan,” a buri-inspired costume parade that featured the different sectors of the community like NGOs, the private sector, purok, barangay and municipal government officials and employees. The air of strong camaraderie was very much felt as the whole town participated and supported the costume parade. It was amazing to see how young women and men were dressed with different creative and distinctively classy costumes made from colorful buri. It was as if these costumes were tailored and styled by high-profile designers,

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

but were actually handcrafted by the Sampalukins themselves!

Palarong bayan

“Palarong Bayan” was held on Day 2 of the 4-day festival. It had the “Juego de Anillo,” “Tiyakad” and “Palosebo.” With a strong Spanish influence, the name "Juego de Anillo” literally translates to a “game of rings.” It involves riding a horse while holding a dagger and “catching” rings hanging from a tree or some other structure using the dagger. “Palosebo” involves a greased bamboo pole that players attempt to climb and be the first to get the small flag located atop the bamboo pole. The first one to get the small flag wins the game and the prize money. For this year, the pot was P3,000.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

It was amazing to see how young women and men were dressed with different creative and distinctively classy costumes made from colorful buri.

The “Tiyakad” is basically a racing game, where players use hewn bamboo or tree branches to form a pair of “stilts.” Being a racing game, players can either walk or do hopping motions using their “stilts” in order to reach the finish line. Want to experience Sampaloc, Quezon? Tour packages are available. For details, call Tina Poblete of the Sampaloc Municipal Planning and Development Office at (042) 555-8342 and (042) 716-0011, or e-mail sampalocquezon@yahoo.com, xtiantina@gmail.com, and nabracia@yahoo.com.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

By Monica Morales-Ibabao

How to fall in love with

Iloilo

By MONICA MORALES-IBABAO

Set in the southeast portion of Western Visayas is the tranquil province of Iloilo, waiting to be rediscovered by locals and foreign tourists alike. Touched by foreign cultures, it has managed to evolve into a rich diversity of traditions, gastronomy and architecture still evident in its progressive urbanity.

Walk down history ‘calle’

Iloilo does not run out of beautiful old world buildings given that it was a leading province during the Spanish colonial era. My group and I started our tour in the city at 9 a.m. and we got to see rows of well-kept commercial

buildings erected as early as the 1920s. Some family shops reminiscent of those found in Recto, Manila, managed by 3rd generation family members, has survived and thrived. Jollibee, a food chain well-loved today, has managed to blend in the Javellana Building constructed in 1922. Still operational and still in all its Corinthian glory, located along the same street is Regent Arcade. It was one of the three well-known theaters in the 1920s. Our next stop was Iloilo’s Domestic Port, Fort San Pedro, built in the 1700s in the village of Irong-Irong as a strategic defense area from local raiders. This tactical port’s name was shortened to Iloilo.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Take home delicious memories

The province is well known for a lot of food, but the most famous fare would be the La Paz Batchoy, so our third destination was inside the wet and dry market or the local ‘tienda.’ Here I met the 66-year-old owner of Netong’s, Mr. Naldo Guillergan whose father’s name the store carries. It wasn’t my first batchoy but it was my best and with the most generous serving so far, as each individual order comes with a refillable bowl of soup, chicharon and roasted garlic toppings. Inside the same wet market is Madge Café, a local coffee shop frequented by local politicians and media men. What caught my attention is their coffee take-out packaging, a tin can.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Get local inspiration

After a tummy-filling snack we headed to the Lopez mansion, more popularly known as Nellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden. It is said that an order was given to the guerillas to burn all the houses in the city before the Japanese army occupied it, but the guerillas failed to do so as they were so amazed with the house. The estate survived the war and progressed, and features a mini golf course as well as a lagoon for boat rides. Today, it houses corporate parties and special events such as weddings. Our next stop was in a local delicacy shop, De Ocampo, home of the original Barquillos. One of the workers was kind enough to demonstrate how to work his very hot contraption and show how this sweet circular wafer treat was made. The man said he is able to make at least a thousand pieces a day. After a road trip an hour away from the city we were able to behold the only declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in the province, the Miag-ao Fortress Church. Although the architectural design can be classified as Baroque-Romanesque, we were told that

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

it is the only truly Filipino church as it has no element that denotes period but features native designs like coconut, papaya and guava shrubs.

Bask in its uniqueness

Our late lunch was worth the wait in Breakthrough, where we sampled fresh seafood. What stood out amongst all the delicious shellfish and crustaceans

Iloilo is such a laidback progressive place it’s almost a paradox.

is a local fish called ‘managat.’ Our guide told us that it wasn’t considered edible before but it was this restaurant that first offered this in their menu. Our next destination was only a short ride away, where I got to explore an old house literally filled with antique furniture and interior décor, the Carmina Balay Na Bato. Waiting for us in the azotea was a hearty warm serving of ‘molo’ soup and thick hot chocolate. The tour ended in the new Riverside Boardwalk where I got to see the sun set and the numerous Ilonggos taking their afternoon stroll. Iloilo is such a laidback progressive place it’s almost a paradox.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite The trails and stairways of

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY KID ORIT

KIBUNGAN 1

esting one’s limits in the outdoors is always a challenge to those who seek the meaning of their existence. A lot would go out to admire nature’s beauty, but only a few would go to the flip side and see how far they can go. But even in the most challenging times in the outdoors, we can still see nature’s splendor–probably in its purest form. Such trip to the outdoors entailed capturing one of the most beautiful mountain ranges up in northern Luzon—the “Kibungan Circuit.” There, we hiked atop Mt. Buga, Mt. Tagpaya, Mt. Oten, and Mt. Tagpew in three straight days, which proved to be a very challenging task. I had to bring a pack full of camping essentials: cook set, portable stove, butane cans, food, tent, sleeping bag, clothes, and most importantly, several cameras to document the whole trip. It would have been easier if I used digital cameras, but in these kinds of trips I usually bring my film cameras, which are usually heavier than their digital counterparts. But capturing my trips on film gives me a differ-

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

ent kind of high compared to going “digital.” Convenience is indeed a big question but that’s another story to tell. Kibungan offers a diverse range of trails that both amateur and hardcore mountaineers would appreciate. However, carrying that much gear took its toll on me. Since the air in the Mountain Province is thin and my body is not used to the light atmosphere, I immediately got dizzy during our approach on the first inclined trail. There were moments when it almost felt like it was just a walk in the park but there were those that challenged climbers to scramble through its 60-70 degree inclined pathways. But there were a few sections where life and death could be decided by a single step, or worse, a misstep. With big packs on our backs and fitting our toes on little cracks on a rock face with almost nothing to hold on, we had to rely on our own sense of balance and trust on the rock to get through the path. There were also flat trails with a twist, paths that ran through a blade’s edge on either side with drops into a ravine that’s at least more than 100 meters deep. But then, though climbing mountains is always risky compared to the usual timid excursions, the beauty it offers to anyone who dares to visit is rewarding enough. The views from those treacherous trails gave us VIP tickets to Kibungan’s view of lush valleys from below. The summits provided spectacular front-row seats to every first break of light at dawn, while clouds gather just a little below other mountains, mimicking the sea and its islands across the horizon. The wonder we experienced during these sunrise-chasing efforts is beyond our language. It takes one to go on the same trip to understand how it felt to watch the sun as it kissed the horizon every time it went up and revealed its full glory. Going through the mossy rainforest, however, gave us a cool break from the uncovered trails that scorched and dehydrated us along the way. Towering pine trees stood tall and posed their majestic age-old branches to the sky. The trails, while inherently dangerous, offered a picturesque spot where we got our pictures taken—often used for

1 Not exactly a walk in the park 2 Kibungan's diverse range of trails

Kibungan offers a diverse range of trails that both amateur and hardcore mountaineers would appreciate.

profile and cover photos. We even got pictures of Kibungan’s own rice terraces and a quick side trip to one of its burial sites—an itinerary not common to most trips. But what I liked the most was that I met new friends. I was a stranger to the group since the team I was with had gone through many trips already, but this one created a special bond between us. Meeting people from different backgrounds through mountain climbing provides that wondrous appeal, being able to meet and interact not only with your own countrymen but also people from around the world. On our way down, we shared different stories about our past trips, and created more

anticipation as we planned our next trips to other exhilarating places. Thus, I have gained not only pictures and the memory of surviving Kibungan Circuit, but also new comrades of the outdoors. A bit of warning, though. I slipped during our trip down when I stepped on a loose rock. Fortunately, I’m still here to tell this story. Camping in high altitudes can also be unforgiving to the faint of heart, especially at nights when temperatures can drop close to zero, depending on the season. If you sleep alone in your tent and have a playful imagination, the dark outdoors can also be sinister, so be warned. Have a safe trip!

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

coverstory

Amorita

Not just a little love

by Rory Visco Photos by Renjie Tolentino and Annabelle Chavez

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been to Bohol three times, yet this island province in Central Visayas never ceases to amaze me. The moment our team touched down at the modest Tagbilaran airport, I immediately felt the warm and hospitable vibe the province is known for. Everyone was smiling, I felt as if they had known me for a long time, like they really missed me. The warm welcome was absolutely genuine. >>

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

here was bedlam at the arrival area, but after that we were whisked away for the 40-minute drive to our ultimate destination—Amorita Resort, a popular resort along Alona Beach in Panglao Island. It was my first time in Amorita, (the word means “little love” in Spanish) and honestly, it was no outlandish awe. The surrounding lush greenery combined with a slightly modern touch in its infrastructure made me feel as if I was not entering a resort. It actually felt like home. As the cold welcome towel soothed my senses, I made a quick visual survey. It was quiet enough but not too eerie, except for the occasional strong gusts of wind from the majestic Bohol Sea. Hotel guests and staff were unbelievably friendly, each one with a ready smile and a reassuring nod. I instantly fell in love! Then of course, the glorious food was a welcome respite, courtesy of Amorita’s Saffron Restaurant, the only restaurant in

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Bohol that offers authentic Boholano heritage dishes. We thought we were too tired to even think about the food, but as soon as it was served, the aroma was too tempting to ignore. In less than 30 minutes, everything was gone.

True Boholano character

Amorita has a total of 14 private villas and 20 deluxe hotel rooms, an infinity pool, a dive pool and dive shop. By September, accommodations on its second phase of development will increase. The resort will have 97 rooms with 4 more clusters, another restaurant, a 2-floor fine-dining restaurant with a function room overlooking the sea, a whiskey bar (¡Toma! Wine Bar), a second infinity pool plus spa and gym facilities. All these under an ambitious expansion scheme that will further bolster Amorita’s impressive travel and leisure offerings. The accommodations spoke very well of Bohol, with the limestone design lining the floors and walls. The hand-woven pieces from Central Visayas were exquisite, lending a true

Boholano character to the destination. Amorita Resorts Chief Executive Officer Lucas Niccolo “Nikki” Cauton explained that they want their guests to feel the uniqueness of Bohol in Amorita, even if their visitors will only stay for a few days. “Phase 1 already had touches of Bohol or Central Visayas design so when we started Phase 2, we made it more Boholano, drawing inspiration from the churches and homes in Bohol made out of limestone, plus the dark floors and light-colored walls and ceilings. We brought these inside the rooms, particularly the color combination of Boholano houses, but with a more modern rendition.” The rooms utilized the aesthetic properties of the popular Central Visayas limestone. According to Cauton, the result turned out to be more than just a visual feast. They were able to minimize the use of paint, which is also good for the environment. The villas drew inspiration from the traditional “salakot,” while the landscaping made use of indigenous materials from the

The accommodations with its limestone look and feel from the floors to the walls spoke to us of Bohol. So did amenities handwoven by the people of Bohol as well as the exquisite pieces of furniture from Central Visayas.

province. “We don’t want it too manicured, so it can really look like an area of Bohol. We didn’t cut any of the trees because we wanted to work with what the environment provided. As you can see, these are all natural trees,” explained the young CEO while pointing to the resort’s verdant tracts of greenery.

Synergy of ideas

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of lead architect Ronald Miranda, Budjie Layug+Royal Pineda Design Architects for the room and architectural design, plus contributions from a San Francisco-based Filipino industrial designer, Amorita blends the warmth of home with stylish luxury. “For us, this is a very exciting project, multi-dimensional in terms of conceptualization and collaboration. There were a lot of perspectives coming from many artistic people, but that made it even more exciting and challenging enough to make you think out of the box, and I think the team worked well together,” Cauton said.

The unique approach is always appreciated by the resort’s guests, mainly Europeans, Asians and a trickle of locals, mostly those who love a serene, quaint and laid-back resort environment. Guests often marvel particularly at the resort’s exquisite furniture, mostly the artistic product of local woodcarvers. According to Cauton, the resort works closely with the carvers by giving them ample support so they can come up with modern pieces and improve their livelihood.

Going a step further

Amorita’s staff is composed mostly of Boholanos and Cauton swore that the Boholanos’ and Visayans’ level of hospitality is really of a different level. We noticed they are a shy bunch but very hospitable, with a constant “good afternoon” or “good morning” greeting. Amorita's brand of hospitality has kept their international guests coming back for more. But amid the positive reviews, Cauton and his team believe that the best can still be made better. Boholanos are naturally

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

hospitable and this makes the job of Amorita’s full-time training manager easier. The challenge is to further enhance their innate warm character with basic development training.

Growing with the community

The next phase will be even more exciting as Amorita expands further to create an “arts village,” a venue where Boholanos can showcase their abilities not just in creating artistic pieces but also in honing their performing arts skills. This idea was born out of the various art workshops the resort has organized. Amorita wishes to support the local craftsmen by teaching them new skills that can improve their art, and increase their income potential. All these will take time, according to Cauton. “I look at it from an operational perspective. If we see operations running smoothly, we can then start creating new phases, products or projects. That’s the way we move. If we see a demand, we sit down and conceptualize and have a feel of the market.”

At the end of the day, we want them to say, ‘Oh, this is what Bohol is, and this is what the Philippines is all about.’ The management team is commiteed to support the various communities in the area, as the business expands in growth. According to Cauton, book-reading programs are now in place in select barangays in Panglao, plus a 21-day storytelling project wherein the teacher will actually live in the community and teach not just the kids but even the parents on how to read. “We noticed that the parents themselves don’t know how to read or too shy or not confident to read to their children, which makes the child’s educational development very difficult and challenging. That’s why we included the mothers. As for the kids, I feel that if we are able to develop them at a very young age, then they’ll most likely succeed in life. This has been the focus of all our efforts in helping the community.” Our three-day stay was demanding and tiring, but was all worth it. We enjoyed the little things Amorita provided—the personalized notes, the fruit, cookie or pastry platters, even the “tablea” chocolate made personally by an 80-year-old Inang Majeng—which we found delightful. Cauton explained that they come up with little things in order to make their guests' stay extra memorable. “At the end of the day, we want them to say, ‘oh, this is what Bohol is, and this is what the Philippines is all about.’” With a love like Amorita, there is absolutely no reason for us not to go back.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

coverstory TRAVELING FOR INSPIRATION by Rory Visco Photo by Renjie Tolentino

Though a lawyer by profession, Atty. Lucas Niccolo “Nikki” Cauton III never abandoned his love and unceasing passion for traveling, an activity he finds both exciting and calming. The activity allows him to recharge while discovering wondrous possibilities the world has to offer. As Chief Executive Officer of Amorita Resort located in Panglao Island, Bohol, he looks to traveling as a source of valuable inspiration, which he finds beneficial in his line of work. “Whenever I travel, I look for things that can help inspire me in my work.” He emphasized how the whole concept of traveling and going on vacation has evolved with the changing times. “Right now, many people see travel as something that does not always need to be first class. My wife (Amorita Resort President Ria Cauton) and I believe that travel should always be about the experience. Even the three-star or four-star hotels are doing great, particularly with regard to the small touches in amenities or service that they provide,” he said. With the increasing demand, Cauton points out that at Amorita Resort, guests' needs always come first. From their room preferences down to the toothpaste and even the container of their bathroom amenities, all are given a personalized touch. “We believe that doing so truly delights the customers. It does not really have to be ultra-modern; if it’s simple, useful and more importantly, personalized, their stay will be truly delightful.” Now that he is deeply involved in the hospitality industry, Cauton views traveling as an opportunity for growth. He takes note of the little details that catch his attention. “I love it when the hotel pays attention to small

details. For example, I stayed in a hotel in Japan, with an area in the room where you can put your rings, small jewellery or your watch. I loved it because those are the little things that do matter, very well thought of, and it’s just a small hotel.” He and his wife actually learn a lot from all these interesting details. They try to mirror the same principle when they apply such changes in Amorita. For Cauton, traveling is more exciting when tourists have a more adventurous mindset. The mind tends to remember instances that are out-of-theordinary, and to spice up the experience Cauton tries to explore areas where locals converge. “I usually go to local markets and try to find out what they offer or look for anything that would tickle my fancy.” He also enjoys foot travel and whenever there’s an opportunity, he hops on a bike. “If I’m with my wife traveling to a city we like to bike, especially if there are a lot of people who are also biking. We can explore different places.” But when they are with their kids, Cauton said walking is the general mode. They go around different areas and check out notso-ordinary eating places, like the local food in the market. Thus the hotel choice must be strategic. “We usually choose a hotel that’s located right at the heart of the city so it’s easily accessible and reachable. And we see to it that we wear comfortable clothes

and footwear. It is a must, except of course when we’re traveling to someplace cold.” Planning for their next travel also involves looking at upcoming hotels. He likes checking out small boutique properties, examining the very character of the place in hopes of gaining inspiration. For him, traveling should always be a unique experience, an adventure to some new destination. "We might find something, a different peg or inspiration that we can use when we start a new project.” As for the choice of airline,

Cauton is not really that particular. “I don’t have a favorite airline. As much as possible, I try everything. But of course when we travel, we look for an airline where we can maximize our budget, try to save as much as we can without really sacrificing comfort and convenience,” he explained. Amorita Resort is the flagship property of Philippine hotel management group One-Of Collection, which manages hotel and resort properties in prime locations in the Philippines that include Momo Beach House also in Bohol, Sta. Monica Beach Club in Dumaguete, and the Funny Lion Inn in Coron, Palawan.

My wife and I believe that travel should always be about the experience. EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

coverstory

Food from Bohol, by Rory Visco PhotoS by Renjie Tolentino

with Love My love for food is like my love for music—eclectic. I can go gourmet or traditional, plated to street food. If it looks palatable, then I easily go for a quick chomp. Meat, fish, veggies, you name it, and most likely I’d give it a go. Our stay at Amorita Resort in Panglao Island, Bohol was, without a doubt, stupendous. And what made it more enticing was the fact that they only served us the best of what Boholano cuisine can offer, all courtesy of Amorita’s Saffron Restaurant. Located beside Amorita’s famous infinity pool, Saffron is the only restaurant in Bohol that serves truly authentic Boholano dishes, according to its Executive Chef, Raphael Ongchiong. At first glance the menu may seem to have the usual offerings, but Chef Raphael is quick to emphasize that every dish had been “deconstructed”

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

in order to offer something new for the senses. “We really didn’t change the taste; we just made the presentation a little different. As they say, ‘why fix it if it ain’t broke?’” One example is the Amorita Pork Sinigang where the pork is given a different presentation. Chef Raphael opted to serve a Lechon Macau style pork belly, with extra crisp skin. The meat is laid on a bed of the usual sinigang veggies like radish, eggplant, string beans, with tomatoes on the side. The sour broth is served separately. It's definitely an unusual sinigang; different, but very tasty especially since we enjoyed it on a cool and breezy evening. Next is their “deconstructed” Binagoongang Baboy. Just like the sinigang, Chef Raphael separated the bagoong (shrimp paste)-laced sauce from the pork. “We

serve the pork lechon kawali style so for those who do not want the bagoong, they can just get the pork. Or if not, they can choose the bagoong, or even just the ensaladang talong (eggplant mixed with minced onion and tomato). Technically, they get 3 dishes in one so guests can freely choose what they want,” the young chef explained. And yes, there’s a subtle hint of coconut milk for that tinge of creaminess without overpowering the dish. One of Saffron’s mostwanted dishes is their Grilled White Marlin. It’s juicy and tasty and truly mouthwatering, with a mix of garden-fresh vegetables with vinaigrette on the side. The original dish had blue marlin as the main ingredient, but some guests commented that the fish was very dry. “The blue marlin meat is much leaner so it gets dry easily.

We did everything we could to make the blue marlin juicy, to no avail, until I discovered the White Marlin. Its meat is more plump and juicier, so we decided to switch to White Marlin.” The Chef pointed out that the White Marlin’s meat is very white, and the Blue Marlin is kind of offwhite. But the White Marlin is somewhat hard to find in other places, according to Chef Raphael. “We were told that it’s probably available only in Bohol, but that is still unconfirmed.” Another favorite Chef Raphael dish is his Beef Kaldereta, where the beef is braised instead of the usual stewed style. “If you would notice, the beef is evenly cut. The whole flank is braised then removed from heat and then cut. The sauce is made separately, complete with carrots, chorizo de bilbao, tomato sauce, olives, and fried potatoes, so the beef won’t be overcooked.” Next is a new personal favorite, a Boholano dish called Halang-Halang.

We really didn’t change the taste; we just made the presentation a little different. As they say, ‘why fix it if it ain’t broke?’ The grilled chicken is cooked until the meat almost falls off the bone and then stewed in spicy coconut milk sauce laced with lots of ginger, then sprinkled with chilli leaves and topped with luscious strips of fresh coconut meat. I love dishes that are creamy, not to mention the exotic-looking way it was plated, and I love anything spicy. I quickly asked for some chili flakes to add

some kick and make the gastronomic experience, well, truly “experiential,” and I was not disappointed. The biggest surprise of the evening was “The Prime," which is not for the faint-hearted. It is made from a huge chunk of behemoth beef, (more than half a pound, at least) about an inch thick, served on oversized buns and loaded with heaps of bacon, onion rings, fresh tomatoes, fried egg, and slathered with melted cheese. The mere sight can make anyone cringe in fear. “We thought of coming up with a burger challenge among resort guests who are certified carnivores, and ‘The Prime’ was what we came up with,” Chef Raphael said. Finally, we went to the sweetest of what Saffron has to offer. The Turon de Bohol is a simple dessert fare that guests truly raved about. We got about 3-5 pieces of turon (jackfruit and banana dusted with sugar, rolled in spring roll wrapper then deep fried) rolls then served a la mode with vanilla ice cream and a dash of crushed nuts. Surprisingly, it wasn’t too sweet, fried to perfection and most certainly, a crowd pleaser. Perhaps the beauty of Chef Raphael’s menu is that it made use of home-made ingredients. Their curry, condensed milk, pastries, bread products, pizza, pasta, cakes are all done in-house. Even the tablea used for their hot chocolate, made in the backyard of an octogenarian named Inang Majeng. “I see to it that whatever dish we prepare, whether Filipino or Southeast Asian, they’re all cooked in a style that will appeal to Europeans. My mentors were mostly Europeans so I aligned my preparation of dishes here at Amorita towards a European palate, and it’s a good thing that our guests are mostly from Europe. I wanted to introduce local flavors to foreign guests and in a way, help uplift our local cuisine.” EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

MAYNILA, my Manila

With the state Manila is in today, it may seem that she is losing out to places like Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Ortigas Center, Alabang and even Eastwood. But don’t count Manila out just yet. What Manila does have that these shiny places don’t is history—more than 400 years of it. Take Binondo, for example. The Ramada Hotel just recently opened in the world’s second oldest Chinatown. If you don’t know where to begin exploring, just contact Old Manila Walks tour and know more of the district’s culinary delights and cultural highlights. Another good example of Manila’s revival is Divisoria. Shopping here is no longer difficult with shopping malls like 168, Tutuban Center and 999, complete with parking, air conditioning and food courts, and prices remain the lowest anywhere in the metro. In fact there are now hotels in Divisoria where

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY ANSON YU

you can take a much-needed nap or even stay overnight to make it ahead of the crowd, like De La Chambre Hotel at the back of the Lucky Chinatown Mall or Orion Hotel inside Tutuban Center. But nowhere is Manila’s struggle to survive more evident than in Intramuros. To draw in more visitors, some major attractions underwent a makeover. The Manila Cathedral opened recently after two years of refurbishment. The result? A brighter interior to see clearly its glorious architectural details, a flat screen TV that replaced hymnals, and side chapels renovated to accommodate events like baptisms. Overall, it does feel more inviting to come inside and talk to God. But before you leave, do check out the cathedral-themed souvenirs for sale at the entrance. Or you can visit the Rizal Shrine inside Fort Santiago. The ground floor focuses on the trial

What Manila does have that these shiny places don’t is history—more than 400 years of it.

and execution of Dr. Jose Rizal. The room where he was held prisoner was recreated, including the trial room, and a reproduced photo of his execution put on one side of the wall. An interesting artifact, a piece of Dr. Rizal’s spine where the bullet passed through, was also preserved inside an elaborate glass urn. The exhibit continues on the second floor, particularly on Dr. Rizal’s life as an exile in Dapitan like his personal belongings, ophthalmologists’ instruments and—surprises of surprises—even several cigarette brands named after him! Overall the makeover helps visitors’ learning experience fun and memorable. Aside from Manila Cathedral, the only other church inside Intramuros is the San Agustin Church. The city’s oldest standing structure and a UNESCO World Heritage site, its museum also underwent renovation. The most visible is the new exhibit hall, which used to be the church’s sacristy, where some of the church’s more valuable artifacts can be seen. To be found as well are elaborately embroidered priests’ vestments and old carved drawers from Mexico where the vestments were stored, and be amazed by an ivory carving collection of local craftsmen who fused their Asian background with West and Catholic Church traditions to create this exquisite collection. The Intramuros makeover is not limited to just historical attractions though, but also souvenir shops like Island Souvenir in front of Fort Santiago and the Manila Collectible Company, with its wide selection of food-related gifts like vinegar made from honey from Lipa, Batangas, plus a good selection of local games and toys for kids. But the most interesting has to be Bambike, with its hand-crafted bamboo bikes made by craftsmen from Gawad Kalinga. You can try them out around the courtyard behind the store for free, but if you like, you can join Bambike founder Bryan McClelland as he takes visitors around Intramuros on these bamboo bikes. As for the Intramuros food scene, just across San Agustin Church is the Ristorante delle Mitre, a favorite hangout where the menu features specialties and favorites from bishops and cardinals all over the country. Highly recommended is Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle’s sweet and delicate Silvanas (cashew meringue with butter cream filling) that just dissolve once you bite into them.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

HOTEL Manila Ramada Central Ongpin cor. Quintin Paredes St. Binondo, Manila 235-4415 www.manilaramadacentral.com De la Chambre Hotel 667-668 Plaza La Chambre St. Binondo, Manila 354-6666 www.delachambrehotel.com The Bayleaf Intramuros Muralla cor. Victoria St. Intramuros, Manila 318-5000 www.thebayleaf.com.ph RESTAURANTS

But please do try the Sky Deck View Bar on the top floor of the Bayleaf Intramuros. A former office building, it is now converted into a training school/hotel by the Lyceum of the Philippines University. The top floor has an open air bar with a 360-degree view of Manilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skyline. In case it rains, just move to the 9 SPOONS restaurant a floor below that offers the same view, except that you are safely indoors. But this is merely the beginning for Manila and the famed Intramuros. A number of new attractions are in the works, such as a new museum on what used to be San Ignacio Church that will showcase the Intramuros Administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of religious-themed art works. So with all these developments, who says Manila is losing out?

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Ristorante delle Mitre CBCP Building 470 General Luna Building 559-5220 Sky Deck View Bar / 9 SPOONS (See Bayleaf Intramuros) SHOPS The Manila Collectible Co. 3rd floor Villa Blanco Bldg Cabildo cor. Beaterio St. Intramuros, Manila 485-9751 www.manilacollectible.com Bambike Plaza San Luis Complex Real cor. General Luna St. Intramuros Manila 525-8289 www.bambike.com TOURS Old Manila Walks www.oldmanilawalks.com 7113823, 0918-9626452

travellite

Virtual

TIME TRAVEL

Isabelo Tampinco, Graciano Nepomuceno, Guillermo Tolentino and Martino Abellana. Gallery VI carries the works of artists during the late Spanish period leading to the American occupation. On view are works of Fabian de la Rosa, Jorge Pineda, Irineo Miranda, Fernando Amorsolo and other masters.

BY EDGAR O. CRUZ // PHOTOS BY JUSTIN JOHN A fruitful travel experience will not be complete without a glimpse of history. The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) located in Intramuros treats visitors to a virtual historical journey. Its extensive collection of works at the National Art Gallery showcases the trials and triumphs of the Filipinos as interpreted by the country’s famous artists.

On view

The Hall of the Masters, also known as the former Legislative Hall, showcases the works of 19th-century Filipino painters Juan Luna and Felix Resurrection Hidalgo. Gallery I or the Luis I. Ablaza Hall shows

HOW TO GET THERE: The National Art Gallery is located within the National Museum complex at P. Burgos Street, Intramuros, Manila. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., entrance fee to each division is P100 per adult. For more information, call (02) 527-1215 or visit www.facebook.com/nationalmuseumofthephilippines.

the Colonial Philippine religious art from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Gallery II or the FCCP Hall has the Basi Revolt series by Esteban Villanueva, one of the very first works about a historical political event. Gallery III is all about art during the academic and romantic period. It focuses on the works of Juan Luna and his other contemporaries. Still on the late 19th century period, Gallery V or the Fundacion Santiago Hall shows the works of Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo with sculptures by Isabelo Tampinco. Gallery V carries “Mother’s Revenge” by National Hero Dr. José P. Rizal. The piece is declared a National Cultural Treasure. The gallery has several busts and paintings of Rizal made by famous Filipino artists like

The National Art Gallery showcases the trials and triumphs of the Filipinos as interpreted by the country’s famous artists. Gallery IX is all about modern Philippine art, as seen in the works of Victorio Edades, Diosdado Lorenzo, Vicente Manansala, Carlos V. Francisco, Hernando R. Ocampo, Cesar Legaspi, Ang Kiukok, Jose Joya, Fernando Zobel Mauro Malanag and many others. The progress of medicine in the Philippines as interpreted by Carlos V. Francisco is on view on Gallery 10, also known as the Museum Foundation of the Philippines. Francisco was commissioned to do all four paintings in 1953, for the entrance hall of the Philippine General Hospital. The works, which are on loan from the University of the Philippines, have been declared a National Cultural Treasure.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Must see at the National Art Gallery The Spoliarium (1884). This brooding and dark life-size oil on poplar work, painted by Juan Luna in Rome, Italy depicts four injured and dying gladiators. After entertaining their oppressors they are dragged by Roman soldiers to the dark and dingy crematory. Cheering spectators and greedy faces below eagerly wait to strip off the armor of the fallen combatants. The barbaric act is a sharp contrast to the humanity of a woman sprawled on the floor as an old man with a torch locates his son. The painting inspired Jose Rizal to pursue his political ideals.

The Parisian Life (1892). This impressionist oil on canvas painted by Luna in Paris, France shows a young good-looking Caucasian woman sitting solo in a coffeehouse in Paris. On one side are three Asian-looking gentlemen. The middle man resembles the artist, furtively looking at the lady while his fellow propagandists, Dr. Ariston Bautista and Rizal, huddle in a corner table. The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) acquired the painting at a Christie’s Hong Kong auction for the fantastic prize of $859,924 (P46 million) in 2002. It was transferred to the National Art Gallery (NAG) of the National Museum in 2012. It hangs on a wide wall while other paintings by Amorsolo are cramped in the remaining walls. “The Parisian Life” has its own guide that explains the story behind the work. It even has benches for interested viewers. It is the only artwork in the entire NAG with such preferential treatment.

The Assasination of Governor Bustamante (Undated, circa 1900). Imperfectly translated from its original title El Asasinato del Governador Bustamante y su Hijo, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo imagines the historic tragedy of the friar-led cruel rabble. In broad daylight, a procession in progress is put to an abrupt halt when they attack the helpless and unprotected Bustamante believed to be a repercussion of Archbishop Francisco de la Cuesta’s incarceration. The high priest was allegedly involved in the corruption and smuggling acts during the Galleon Trade. The family of National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin donated the painting to the National Museum in 2013.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

The Burning of Santo Domingo Church (1942). Amorsolo paints the original Santo Domingo Church in Intramuros on fire, as Japanese planes continue to bomb Manila despite being an open city in 1941. As fire consumes the church, black and gray smoke rises, yet the monument of Fr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P., bravely stands.

Stations of the Cross (1960). Stations 3 and 5 of Carlos Francisco’s 5 x 3 foot oil on canvas from the Don Bosco Chapel in Mandaluyong City are now part of the GSIS collection at the NAG. The 14 panels were sold by the panel by the Salesian Fathers for a undisclosed large amount to raise funds for various poor and marginalized youth projects. Stations 1 to 7 were sold during the mid-80s, an ominous sign of excellent demand.

travellite Frenzied shopping spree at

Tutuban Center Night Market

Shopping centers should always cater to consumers’ needs regardless of the season. Whatever season or reason, buyers always look for a 360-degree shopping experience, a place where they can find not only the best products money can buy, but also a one-of-a-kind pleasurable shopping experience. This goes particularly well for those whose bonding fix involves the night-shopping frenzy. It’s always a joy to see the shopping centers carrying a wide array of high-quality and affordable goodies that’s substantial enough to fill their shopping bags. Tutuban Center’s Night Market is the perfect example of an exciting shopping alternative that everyone can definitely enjoy even after regular mall hours. Dusk settles naturally at the end of each day, but the shopping excitement continues as an outstanding array of affordable goodies that fit everyone’s budget is rolled out, ready to be peddled to waiting customers.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

HOW TO GET THERE: From Cubao, Quezon City, it's best to take the MRT-2, which runs along Aurora Boulevard all the way to Recto Avenue. Alight at the Recto station, then take a jeep or cab to Divisoria ( jeep if it’s during the peak season like Christmas or a few weeks before school opening). If you’re coming from Caloocan or Baclaran, either take a jeep bound for Divisoria or ride the LRT-1, which runs along Rizal Avenue all the way from Monumento in Caloocan and Taft Avenue from Baclaran in Pasay City. You can alight at the Doroteo Jose station, walk to Recto Avenue and ride a cab or jeep to reach Tutuban Center. An alternative is to alight at Carriedo station and go to Divisoria via the Sta. Cruz route (through the Juan Luna/Reina Regente perimeter

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Take your pick among the toys, novelty items, fun and fashionable accessories, gadgets and gizmos, home furnishings, apparel. Whatever you need, Tutuban Center Night Market would most likely have them at the best price ever. Amid the frenzied night-shopping scene, the mall's security team will be working overtime to ensure an efficient shopping experience. Safety and security is provided at Tutuban Center Night Market by uniformed and plainclothes security personnel on ground. A network of CCTV cameras are also in place. Parking is also worry-free with the mall's 7-story parking building. Tutuban Center is not just a night market. Once you’re done with your lengthy Tutuban Center’s shopping, you can chill and settle at Tutuban’s “Foodstreet” Night Market offering delectable and mouthis the perfect watering servings of popular example of an food and other appetizing exciting shopping Pinoy Asian delicacies. alternative that Brightly-lit stalls, friendly everyone can store staff, astounding bargain definitely enjoy items, these and more await even after regular shoppers at Tutuban Center’s mall hours. Centermall.

travellite The charms of

SIEM REAP BY KEVIN WATSON TSAI

We all have a few cities weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve visited that elicit a yearning to return to. Siem Reap is in my top five, so much so that my impulsiveness made me go twice in a span of four months. Not that I regret this in any way; I later realized that every trip one takes ultimately has its purpose. I only have a few criteria to keep coming back to a city: 1) That it offers great value for money 2) Has a thriving night market scene (similar to that in Taipei, Hong Kong and Bangkokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jatujak Weekend Market) and 3) Has a subway system or offers alternative convenient modes of transportation. Needless to say, Siem Reap (as well as the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh) ticks everything on the checklist and more.

Upon arrival

Disembarking from the aircraft, immigration and exiting the airport can take as little as five minutes without waiting for any luggage at the baggage carousel. To integrate yourself with the local culture the moment you step out of the airport, do away with the

E X PE R IE NCE T R AV E L A N D L I V I NG // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 201 4

traditional taxi (about $7) and opt for an authentic, cheap tuktuk ride instead. Prior to your arrival date, make arrangements with your hotel (via email or otherwise) to have one pick you up. This saves you time in having to pick one and negotiating the fare after a tiring flight, but it should be about $3 for one tuktuk. Getting from the airport to the city center takes 20 minutes, as there are minimal private cars and hence, practically no traffic. The official currency may be the Cambodian riel (a handful of which is useful for small purchases), but to anyone who’s been to the country he or she would know that the US dollar is the de facto legal tender especially in tourist districts. Despite this reality, it’s still one of the least expensive destinations one can visit.

Save or splurge on your stay

Decent accommodations can astonishingly be priced below $20 per room per night, which is one of the phenomenal aspects of traveling in Cambodia. As long as you select a hotel near the party district of Pub Street or along Sivatha Road, you will have no problem reaching all the markets and attractions on foot. I would personally stay again at the New Bequest Angkor Hotel, an unassuming 3-star hotel that offers the best value for money with its free airport pickup, helpful staff, great location and impressive breakfast choices. But if you wish to splurge, consider the much-acclaimed Park Hyatt Siem Reap where travelers can get away from the noise from inside exquisite rooms nestled inside its compound. Normally the heat can be intense so you may want to consider booking a trip in January, when it’s particularly cold. This is probably worth the 20% higher peak season rates, which lasts from December to April.

Getting around in the city and getting to Angkor Wat

For those of you who love street food, you surely won’t be disappointed in Cambodia. Sidewalk food stalls commonly offer fried rice and fried noodles with your choice of meat for $2. At restaurants such as the Khmer BBQ Restaurant or Cambodian BBQ Restaurant near Pub Street, order some Khmer Barbeque and traditional Cambodian amok, a curry dish usually made with fish. Fresh fruit shakes are available and you have the option of choosing more exotic ones like jackfruit and cashew nut. If you’re feeling a little adventurous (you’re on vacation after all), head to Happy Special Pizza or its neighbor Happy Angkor Pizza, where you can try (for the first time if you’re like most people) delicious pizza but with a twist courtesy of a leafy ingredient that is sure to keep you “highly” happy. For some drinks, you can’t go wrong with having $1.50 margaritas at the balcony

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Shopping the night (market) away

If you prefer night markets over generic items sold at department stores any day, then you’re sure to regard Siem Reap as a haven. You can do your day shopping at the Old Market (while you’re there you can also get a haircut in any of the salons at a fraction of the amount your hairstylist charges) and then proceed to the many night markets in the vicinity. Support local crafts while honing your bargaining skills by buying a pair of sunglasses and a kroma, the scarf locals wear to protect you from the sun and dust. Another good purchase would be fisherman pants made from fabric with intricate patterns for both men and women. For those like me who collect paintings and artwork from each country, go to the Noon Night Market for extensive, affordable selections of various artists’ depictions of the Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple, among other icons. For a unique souvenir, buy inexpensive prescription glasses or frames at optical shops that line Sivatha Road. After a long day of shopping, you can indulge in a fish spa, foot massage or body massage at numerous spas scattered in the area.

Siem Reap is a bustling city full of life and color with much art and culture to appreciate. Ultimately, what keeps you coming back is having endeared yourself to its people

Knowing how to ride a bicycle around the city can save you lots in tuktuk fares. Rent one for just $1-2 per day (although taking one to explore Angkor Wat might be exhausting and bothersome). Instead, ask your hotel to book you a tuktuk for at least half a day to tour you around the vast Angkor Archeological Park complex, where the infamous Angkor Wat is just one of the many temples you can find there. Pay a little over $10 for one tuktuk to tour the inner main temples which include the Ta Prohm and Bayon Temples of Tomb Raider fame, and more for the farther temples. A one-day ticket costs $20 per person; discounted prices available for 3 or more days access. After the ticket counters, you’ll be taken to the main temple entrance where English-speaking tour guides are available for an hour or so of explaining the history behind the structures, in exchange for a few dollars. You can relish views of the Angkor Wat both against the iconic vermillion background at sunset or the equally stunning contrast with the indigo sky at dawn (if you can bring yourself to wake up before 5 a.m., that is).

“Happy” eats and drinks

of Viva Mexican restaurant while watching revelers enjoy themselves and the music. Keeping your network updated on social media is effortless with free wifi at most dining establishments. For dessert, go for more street food in the form of a banana chocolate pancake, a crepe-like pastry with a very chewy consistency cooked on oil and served in bond paper for $1. Watching the young men whip a ball of dough into a tasty treat is part of what makes it fascinating. You can find their food carts on every corner of Pub Street; you can’t miss it. But for some relaxation after a day of walking, make your way to The Glasshouse at the Park Hyatt. They have home-made ice cream for $2 and artisanal cupcakes for just $1 that normally cost twice as much anywhere else, all of which can be enjoyed in a cozy ambiance. While I don’t fully understand how the prices are the way they are for a 5-star hotel, I am certainly not complaining.

Beyond temples and markets

It seems one can’t run out of activities to do in Siem Reap. Another way to help support the locals while being entertained by captivating stunts would be to watch the nightly Phare Circus. Held at an intimate venue, it exhibits the talents of passionate young performers which can only be described as a must-see by those who have seen the show. At $15 a ticket, a portion of the proceeds benefit the education of Cambodian children so you know it’s a worthwhile cause. And if you think you’ve exhausted all that you can possibly do in Siem Reap, consider a convenient day or overnight bus trip to Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville or even to the bordering countries of Thailand, Laos or Vietnam.

Falling in love with the Khmer people

I find the people of Cambodia sincerely warm and friendly. Although I’m a tourist in their eyes, it seems I get flashed a genuine smile each time from the tuktuk driver, sidewalk vendor or masseuse. I bought a pair of eyeglass frames and the shopkeeper voluntarily offered to clean the ones I had on and returned them to me squeaky clean. To think the minimum wage in Cambodia is a lot less than $100 a month; no wonder I’ve never seen locals patronize restaurants or clubs. That said, a few dollars in tips certainly go a long way and having $1 or 2 bills is handy. It’s a given that tourists can affordably live like royalty in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Despite the fact that Siem Reap is a bustling city full of life and color with much art and culture to appreciate, ultimately what keeps you coming back is having endeared yourself to its people and having found beauty and inspiration in its simplicity.

E X PE R IE NCE T R AV E L A N D L I V I NG // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 201 4

travellite Well-loved ancient

KYOTO BY KEVIN WATSON TSAI

There is certainly more to Japan than anime and video games. The Japanese are highly inclined towards the preservation of culture and history. This is why ancient Kyoto is well-loved by both locals and tourists. The former capital is roughly 30 minutes away from Osaka. Visitors can take the regular trains or the high speed, and more expensive, shinkansen bullet train. One of the most interesting areas to visit in Kyoto would be the eastern region of Higashiyama. Our travel group knew we were on the right track because the moment we stepped inside the bus, half of the passengers were dressed in traditional Japanese attire.

Uphill cultural walk

Several buses stop at the Kiyomizu-michi and upon getting off, you don’t really know

what to expect because it looks like a regular place. But once you make your way uphill at Kiyomizu-zaka, and the surrounding streets of Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka, you will feel authentic Japanese culture seeping in. On some days, it could get a little crowded with tourists, locals, and older school children exploring the place. I was surprised to find out that even tourists wear beautiful Japanese attire. There are places that rent out the clothes complete with hair styling and makeup for at least JPY 3000. The outfit is known as yukata made from light cotton fabric and usually worn during summertime. It is not as heavy as the kimono which is worn during formal events. If you wish to see an authentic Japanese geisha, head for the nearby Gion neighborhood.

Temple-hopping

There are many Buddhist temples in this area and the most popular one is the Kiyomizu-dera or the Temple of Clear Water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Admission is an affordable JPY 300. Before reaching the ticket booth, you will go through the Niomon Gate which has a wishing corner on the left and fountain to the right where temple-goers wash their hands before ringing the bell for good luck. Upon entering the main complex, you can

As you bring some yatsuhashi back home while you fondly recall the experience of walking along the slopes of Kiyomizu, you will realize that if Japan had a heart, it would be Kyoto. find the Otowa Waterfalls. Travelers drink the Otowa water for good fortune. The peak offers fantastic views of the city. Other attractions in the lower regions include five-tier Yasaka Pagoda and the Shinto Yasaka Shrine, the Kodai-ji, Chion-in and Shoren-in temples.

Native treats

As you make your way down from the temple, why not visit the shops that offer complimentary cups of green tea? Now is the perfect time to purchase meibutsu or famous products associated with particular regions like wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets, miyage (souvenirs) and Kyoto’s yatsuhashi. Sold at an affordable price, yatsuhashi is a chewy mochi-like treat made from rice flour and dusted with sweet kinako (roasted soybean flour.) Some are made into flat sheets while others come folded with fruit or other fillings, like a fusion of crepe and ravioli. It’s very difficult to refuse when there is an abundance of free samples from store owners. It comes in different flavors like matcha (green tea), black sesame, cinnamon, strawberry, choco banana and many others. Eating this delectable treat evokes a sense of home-made goodness. Visiting Kyoto is like stepping back in time. The presence of geishas, yukatas being worn as if it were a contemporary attire, traditional shops and stone-paved pathways contrast beautifully with the anachronisms of ubiquitous vending machines and smartphones—a testament to Japan’s utmost regard for its heritage and reputation for technological advancement. As you bring some yatsuhashi back home while you fondly recall the experience of walking along the slopes of Kiyomizu, you will realize that if Japan had a heart, it would be Kyoto.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

JEJU

An island of natural wonder Centuries-old rock formations, towering cliffs, and Korean mermaids in just one location Text and Photos by Ma. Glaiza Lee

“Dae Jang Geum,” popularly known here as the TV series “Jewel in the Palace,” was based on a historical Korean lady who became the first and only woman to serve as royal physician to the King. I was attracted to its riveting theme of a lowly woman’s successful rise in a rigidly male-dominated society during the Joseon Period. But the beautiful locations were what kept me glued to it. Scenes at the Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace were stunning. What captured my heart, though, was Jeju Island, the far-flung volcanic island where the lady protagonist was exiled.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Geologic treasures

With its stunning topography and distinct culture, Jeju is one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations. Located 85 kilometers off the southwestern tip of the mainland, Jejudo is a self-governing province with its own history, distinct customs, unique lifestyle and local language. Relatively isolated, the island’s nature has been well preserved. Some 1,200 years ago, a sea volcano erupted and spewed lava which immediately cooled down upon reaching the water. Another volcanic eruption formed Mt. Hallasan whose massive dome dominated the island’s landscape. The last eruption about

25,000 years ago created Baengnokdam, the crater-lake at the summit. These eruptions shaped present-day Jeju Island, characterized by dark gray rocks, ash soil, volcanic cones, mysterious caves, and lava tubes. Dubbed “Korea’s Hawaii,” its weather is considerably warmer, perfect for a short trek on the meadows or beaches. Explore it through the Olle-gil, an old Jeju word which means “a path connected to one’s home from the main road.” It takes tourists on a journey through verdant terrains and coastal seascapes, and provides a certain level of peace, happiness, and healing. There are about 19 olle-gils there, each about 15-20 kilometers long. While the

trails provide easy trek, it may take five to eight hours to explore one path, so I highly recommend wearing comfortable footwear. One of the paths I explored was the Yongmeori Coast, a rocky hill that resembled the head of a dragon entering the water. This geological treasure boasts of a stunning curtain wall of sandstone that stretches along the coast. Formed millions of years ago, it was created through layer-by-layer accumulation of tephra from hydrovolcanic eruptions. Water and wind then carved the rock, forming spectacular shapes and contours. Within the vicinity, one can also see the replica of The Sparrowhawk, a Dutch boat shipwrecked off the Jeju coast in 1653. With Mt. Hallasan as backdrop, the ship was built in recognition of Hendrick Hamel, a Dutch bookkeeper and one of the 36 survivors. He spent several years in Jeju and Seoul documenting his life there, which provided the West its first impressions of Korea and its people.

Korea’s mermaids

Walking along the rocky coast, I met haenyeo or woman divers. Dubbed “Korea’s mermaids,” they are local cultural icons and symbols of the island’s distinct culture. In Jeju, with its strong matriarchal society, women are the chief breadwinners. This is evident in a local saying, “Have a baby girl, we will throw a party. Have a baby boy, we will kick his ass.” Women dive for the sea’s bounty while the men stay home to take care of the children. The haenyeo hone their diving skills at a very young age. They “free dive” (without oxygen) to about 20 meters deep to gather conch, abalone, octopus, sea cucumber, and seaweed. They don’t use oxygen to prevent over-fishing and keep the marine ecosystem’s balance. A wet suit, face mask, weights, iron pick to dredge the shellfish, nets to hold her catch, and a buoy to alert anyone on the surface about her location are all she needs. Because it is not an easy job, many younger women are not so keen to continue the tradition. Haenyeo’s numbers dropped dramatically, from 15,000 in the 1970s to about 5,000 (mostly elderly) today.

To learn more about haenyeo, visit the Haenyeo Museum at the quaint seaside village of Hado-ri. Established in 2006, the exhibit showcases the history and culture of haenyeo through photos, memorabilia, and other artifacts.

The sunrise peak

Meanwhile, in the northeastern part of Jeju, explore “Seongsan Ilchubong”(Sunrise Peak). Owning one of the most breathtaking sights in Korea, Seongsan Ilchubong is a steep volcanic cone with wide, flat-floored crater made from volcanic ash. The peak was formed 40,000 to 120,000 years ago by a small but explosive eruption where the magma cooled once it touched the water. Attached to the mainland through a thin isthmus, the peak boasts of its dramatic cliff that plunges almost straight down into the turquoise sea. This beautiful sight was produced when the sea eroded the cone almost down to the base. The hike up the peak begins from the parking lot up to the crater’s lip that rewards you with a panoramic view. It is definitely a sight to behold at sunrise—the bowl-shaped crater blanketed by lush, verdant grass fields, and the isthmus covered with brilliant yellow rapeseed flowers, with the sun slowly awakening the surroundings with its golden rays in the background. Just south of the sunrise peak, another good vantage point is the nearby Seopjikoji, another hilly protrusion into the sea, characterized by rocky ocean cliffs and uninterrupted open meadows of grass and rapeseed flowers.

The pond of God

One must-visit destination in Jeju’s southern coast is Cheonjeyeon Falls (“Pond of God”). Cold water pours down from its ceiling to create a waterfall, then flows along a river and cascades down a 30-meter high cliff to form the second waterfall, and then continues to flow to create the third waterfall before heading out to sea. Some locals believe the water can cure diseases, especially if they stand underneath during the Buddhist All Souls Day or the Cheoseo Day which happens end of August. Trekking towards the falls, one passes a

Victoria-styled arch bridge called Seonimgyo, often called the Seven Nymphs Bridge because of the nymph sculptures carved on its side. From there, one can see the octagonal Cheonjeru Tower, with its artwork that describes the legend of the nymphs and the mountain god. The bridge connects the waterfalls to the Jungmun Tourist Complex, a one-stop-shop vacation and convention center.

In Jeju, with its strong matriarchal society, women are the chief breadwinners. This is evident in a local saying, “Have a baby girl, we will throw a party. Have a baby boy, we will kick his ass.” Nearby is the Daepo Coast Jusangjeolli Cliffs, Korea’s version of Northern Ireland’s Great Causeway. The spectacular black cliffs were formed through columnar jointing, a natural phenomenon where the lava cooled rapidly causing it to contract and crack, creating rows of polygonal columns that make quite a dramatic scene as the waves crash into it, especially during sunset. Truly, a few days in Jeju Island is not enough to explore its many secrets. But one thing's for sure, the island really lives up to its name. Indeed, Jeju Island is an experience I’d want to relive again and again.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

My Singapore Chicken Rice odyssey The twists and turns in finding one of the Lion City’s best dishes by ROSSANA UNSON Shopping used to be the first and foremost activity on my mind whenever I travel: where to shop, what to buy, the exchange rate, and how to get to the biggest and best bargain sites my destination can offer. Having limited pocket money for my Singapore trip, I planned to “window” shop and just enjoy the city’s sights instead. A few days before our flight took off, somehow I became bent on looking for the best Chicken Rice (known as Hainanese Chicken Rice hereabouts) in Singapore. The ride from the airport to the city was swift and devoid of a single sign of traffic. As we checked into The Grand Park City Hall, I was greeted with strong, speedy and free wifi signal. Despite having a very small budget, I shopped. The shops on Orchard Road that shouted SALE called out to me. Even if the ex-

change rate was high, I found some pretty good bargains at H&M and Forever 21, both easily accessible by MRT from City Hall station, which was nearest our hotel.

Diverted by shopping

But I digress. I was on a “Chicken Rice” mission and chicken rice was what I was going to eat no matter what. On the first day, lunch was at a sushi place because I was tired and hungry and well, craving for sushi/sashimi. For dinner, a friend took me to Newton Food Centre, where the food variety was so wide that I “chickened out” and ordered the Cereal Prawns because they seemed easier to eat than Chilli Crab. Cereal Prawns with Salted Fish Fried Rice was absolutely delicious paired with a great German lager. Food at Newton isn’t cheap by Philippine standards, but if you’re in another country you

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

might as well eat the food they’re famous for. Do this, just once, or else miss it out. After Newton we headed for the shopping mall Mustafa Centre in Little India, the shopping district open 24 hours and known for low prices. As I put my tired head on the hotel pillow that night, I promised myself that the next day would be chicken-rice day no matter what!

Popeye’s chicken

Day 2 came and breakfast was at my room. I planned to go out for chicken rice for lunch but managed to spend a few hours in Orchard Road, which left me cross-eyed from hunger. All the familiar places called out to me, McDonald’s, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Starbucks. Finally, in an attempt to eat something that’s “not available in Manila,” I ended up lunching on Popeye’s fried

grained and very easy on the palate. The Ba Kuteh, a meat bone soup made from meaty pork ribs simmered in a broth of herbs and spices, was soothing; its meat fell from the bone and was so soft that you just needed to poke it with your chopstick so it would fall into smaller pieces. chicken. It wasn’t chicken rice but it was at least still chicken. Dinner was really late that evening because we crazily decided to go to Ikea in Tampines. It really isn’t that far by MRT but we ended up traveling one-and-a-half hours by bus. My companion knew I was dying (and yes, by this time I was literally dying for it) to eat chicken rice. We turned a blind eye to Ikea’s Swedish meatballs and headed for Geylang where I knew I was going to eat Chicken Rice. Geylang is commonly known as the red light district of Singapore with many food stalls that operate for 24 hours. But when my companion came back to our Ikea knick-knack laden table, he had two plates of Sambal Chicken and a bowl of Ba Kuteh. “It’s not chicken rice!” I wailed. “We ignored the Swedish meatballs for this?” “Hey, it’s sambal chicken with rice,” he replied. “Sorry, they ran out of chicken rice.” It wasn’t chicken rice but it was very good sambal chicken with superb rice: soft, long-

hunger is that no sensible thoughts enter your head. As I passed each stall, there didn’t seem to be any chicken rice being offered! Finally, toward the end of the row of food hawkers, I saw the Chicken Rice sign and as I looked right and left I decided this was IT. This was where I was going to FINALLY eat the dish I obsessed about for the past week!

The prized meal

I realized that in my quest for the best Chicken Rice, I’d found nooks and crannies of Singapore I never would have found if I hadn’t been searching.

Sitting in front of my esteemed plate of Chicken Rice, priced at SGD3.50 or roughly P122.50, my first observation was that the chicken wing—which I don’t eat— was fried. This was not Chicken Rice, I thought to myself, but that’s what it said on the menu board and so that’s what this was. The rice by itself was good. Rice in Singapore is really delicious, but since I’m not a chicken wing eater, especially not a chicken wing chopped into four pieces, I thought that after putting so much hope into one dish, I was expecting too much. The broth was tasty and the man at

the stall gave me another cup at no extra charge. Still, there was indeed a sense of disappointment that the chicken rice did not live up to my expectations. As I finished the last of my rice with soup (there wasn’t enough chicken wing meat left for me to mix with the rice) and sipped my fresh soursop juice, I discovered another row of hawkers parallel to the first row I went to. As I walked, just a few feet away from me stood the hawker stand that my friend had highly recommended: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice! So close and yet, so far! I considered sitting down for another plate but the unquenchable desire to have Chicken Rice had simply gone out of me. I no longer wanted to eat Chicken Rice in Singapore. As I walked out of Maxwell Hawkers Centre, I realized that in my quest for the best Chicken Rice, I’d found nooks and crannies of Singapore I never would have found if I hadn’t been searching. That made my Chicken Rice odyssey so worthwhile.

In my last full day in this country, my dinner was already booked. My one chance to eat chicken rice was lunch. I headed for Maxwell Road Hawker Centre where a reliable friend advised that I would find the best Chicken Rice in Singapore. I had one thing, and only one thing in mind that day. After I finished a few errands, I found myself reeling with hunger at 3:45 p.m. on Orchard Road, knowing that this wass my last opportunity to get Chicken Rice. This was no longer a desire but a full-blown obsession. I looked at my MRT card with SG$20 still on it and at the taxi line on the road, and threw caution to the wind. As I got into the cab I told the driver, “Maxwell Hawker Centre, please! I’d like to take the MRT but I’m too hungry and I don’t know how to get there!” Less than 10 minutes later, we arrived at this special destination and I can hear angels singing as I got down from the cab and stumbled into what I hoped was Chicken Rice heaven. The problem with going somewhere when you are faint with

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

travellite

CALIFORNIA DREAMING

BY RAJAN DE LOS SANTOS

Santa Barbara

Beaches, Spanish old town, Oprah Winfrey, and yes, wine. This is my spiel about Santa Barbara to a family or friend visiting California for the first time. I am usually met with a scratch on the head or a look of disinterest, especially when the mind is predisposed to spending an entire vacation in popular California tourist attractions such as Disneyland, Universal Studios, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Staples Center, Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles and Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. But when the tourist within wears off and the thirst for culture and adventure sets in, a visit to Santa Barbara is definitely worth the trip. Santa Barbara is a 2-hour drive north from Los Angeles (depending on how bad the notorious L.A. traffic gets—yes, it can feel like getting stuck on Edsa sometimes). Once past knotted highways, towering city buildings, and swaths of business parks and shopping centers, you’ll know you’re near or in Santa Barbara when the drive becomes scenic with the Pacific Ocean on the left and the Santa Ynez mountains on the right. In Santa Barbara proper, you’ll easily recognize the Spanish-inspired architecture all around with most buildings and homes uniformly painted in white and roofed with

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

orange terracotta tiles. To get a panoramic view of the city, a trip up the watchtower of the 1920s-built Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a must. When on top, your eyes are in for a treat with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, ocean, and mountains (hashtags: #surreal, #beautiful, #awesome, #majestic). If you’ve been to France or Monaco, you’ll find the look and feel of Santa Barbara similar to Saint-Tropez or the coastal resort towns in Côte d’Azur. This similarity has earned Santa Barbara the moniker “The American Riviera.” As in Côte d’Azur, Santa Barbara is known for its high-end resort hotels, shops, restaurants, and attractions. And by highend, I mean spending P500 for a glass of Merlot and P2,000 for an al fresco lunch on any given weekday. There are no shopping malls to spend weekends in; only strings of small outdoor retail stores with products that are remotely made in China. The opulence associated with Santa Barbara has lured celebrities and moneyed personalities like Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jackson, Rob Lowe, Christopher Lloyd, Kevin Costner, Jane Fonda, Steven Spielberg, Kirk Douglas, and Ellen DeGeneres (among many others) to build their mansions in the outskirts and hills of the city (and oh, by the way, Katy Perry and the late Paul Walker grew up here, too).

But Santa Barbara doesn’t have to be expensive—if you know where to look and go. For a city almost the size of Muntinlupa, Santa Barbara’s attractions and activities can be like Divisoria: plenty of variety and affordable! Let’s start with Santa Barbara beaches. There are miles of free public beaches ranging from large and popular to small and peaceful. Favorites include the beach along Stearns Wharf, Leadbetter Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach (more popularly known to locals as “Hendry’s Beach”) and Butterfly Beach. You can run, dig in the sand, take a nap, surf, play beach games, grill steaks and BBQ for a picnic, rent kayaks, or try out some stand-up paddle boarding all day long. Next, visit Stearns Wharf. This famous Santa Barbara pier was built in 1872 and has withstood natural disasters and fires over decades. It is similar to Manila Bay’s boardwalk but built primarily of wood. From a bustling port for cargo and passenger ships to a home for pleasure boats, a fishing fleet and whale watching tours, Stearns Wharf is home to family-friendly eateries, an ice cream shop, souvenir stores, and the Ty Warner Sea Center (kid-friendly, hands-on exhibits of sea creatures and animals). You could also spend the day fishing and mingle with tourists taking endless pictures, some of whom are most likely Pinoys. Another inexpensive (read: free) activity while in Santa Barbara is hiking. With an average in the low to mid 70s throughout most of the year, Santa Barbara is an ideal place to hike. Behind its coastal towns are the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Los Padres National Forest. There are many great trails through these mountains that offer quiet canyons, gushing waterfalls, and tranquil lookout points with stunning ocean views. With just a pair of outdoor shoes, a bottle

of water (and probably a granola bar, in case you get hungry), comfortable clothes, and sunscreen, you can hike in popular and relatively easy trails around Santa Barbara like the 5.5-kilometer Inspiration Point (via Jesusita Trail) and Rattlesnake Canyon Trail or portions of the Cold Spring Trail. Ready the camera when you reach the top and tag everyone after a shot—the view is worth posting on Facebook or IG, for sure. For the culturati, Santa Barbara is home to art studios and galleries. Apart from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art—which has showcased great art and artists of the past such as Degas, Leonardo, Picasso, and Van Gogh—Santa Barbara boasts of over 100 art galleries around the city where exhibits and presentations happen almost every day and are open to the public (sometimes with free wine and cheese). Watch

out for 1st Thursday, which offers an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara with participating galleries and art-related venues offering free access to visual and performing art in a fun and social environment every first Thursday of the month. And, of course, the wine. For the uninitiated—or those who have not seen the Oscarwinning film "Sideways"—Santa Barbara is a wine country. Santa Barbara’s climate is ideal to the cultivation of classic grape varieties and production of world-class wines. You could spend a day touring wineries and vineyards on your own or with a group ($10/each), stopping by in each one to taste a variety of wine for free or for purchase of a bottle after. I recommend Rideau Vineyard, which employs a Filipino in its tasting room. Let her know you’re a kababayan and she’ll give you a crash course in wine selection and pairing, and a discounted price on wine purchases, too! But if you’re pressed for time, there are also Urban Tasting Rooms downtown—most of which are found near Cabrillo Boulevard, where the hotels are built. Further up from Santa Barbara—about 40 minutes away, past the Chumash Casino and Resort—is Solvang, a Danish community that is home to a number of bakeries, restaurants, and businesses offering a taste of Denmark in America. The Danish architecture (windmills!) and food (sweet ǽbleskivers pastries) will transport you to rural Denmark—giving you that weird time-warp experience in modernday California. So the next time you’re planning on visiting your family and friends in California, include Santa Barbara in your itinerary. It may not be L.A. or San Francisco, but it does have a small-town charm that is big on activities and adventures for you to enjoy and experience. EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

livingwell Weight management leads to a healthier lifestyle

Dr. Mary Jane “MJ” Torres of the Zen Institute is known for her unorthodox approach to a healthy lifestyle. The force behind the Zen Institute, the first and true medical spa in the country, Dr. MJ continues to introduce breakthrough products and services in line with her approach to holistic wellness. The Zen Institute is not your usual clinic. Upon entering the medical spa, clients will immediately feel its calming effects. With medical procedures done by licensed doctors and wellness consultants, treatments are mostly nonsurgical and non-invasive.

Zen Institute is also known for its Weight Management program. Dr. MJ believes that apart from looking and feeling better, a healthier body weight is good for your overall well-being. At The Zen Institute, a particular science-based protocol is strictly in place for clients who wish to have slimmer and healthier bodies. No short-cuts, no fast remedies. Clients follow individualized protocols and maintenance programs, guided by doctors and wellness consultants. Zen’s Weight Management programs are scientifically proven to be safe and effective.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

When needed, clients are advised to undergo Colonics and Intravenous (IV) Micronutrition. Colon Hydrotherapy, a.k.a. Colonics, cleans the colon by flushing out toxins from the body. Guided by the philosophy that holistic health is a harmonious combination of medical science, creativity and aesthetic sense, the process utilizes the efficiency of top-of-the-line hydrotherapy machine and guided licensed physicians. The therapy usually lasts for about 60 minutes. On a long-term basis, Colonics can reach an even deeper layer of body and mind connections, emotional and mental baggage and energetic re-patterning. Part of the program is a coffee cocktail to enhance faster metabolism and improve better absorption of the nutrients needed by the body. Colonics should be employed at least four times a year to facilitate the accumulation of toxins in the body. However, it can be done weekly specially by those who don’t eat much vegetables, drink alcohol a lot, and follow an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. A patient who has undergone Colonics should maintain a healthy diet to encourage the growth of good bacteria in the body. Those with overworked liver may also consider Zen Institute's IV Micronutrition. For clients who take in too much medicines and drugs, IV Micronutrition can help restore liver health.

Dr. MJ believes that apart from looking and feeling better, a healthier body weight is good for your overall well-being.

IV Micronutrition is a procedure that delivers micronutrients straight to the veins—no need to pass through the gastrointestinal system and liver enzymes. Hence, it spares the liver and gastrointestinal tract from further exposure to drugs. And nothing is lost in the process; all the nutrients are absorbed directly by the body. The Zen Institute offers four types of IV micronutrients: Immune Booster (vitamin B-complex and thymus extract, which work together to improve T-cells), Revitalize (vitamin B-complex, electrolytes, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids for more energy), Rejuvenate (vitamin B-complex, electrolytes, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids to enhance cell regeneration from within), and Weight Management (amino acids, L-carnitine, electrolytes, and vitamin C to speed up metabolism and fat mobilization). Effective weight management can only be achieved with a strict science-based protocol enhanced by a holistic approach. And only a true medical spa can effectively deliver the best results. The Zen Institute is located at 69 Scout Rallos St., Tomas Morato, Quezon City (632) 441-1712 / 412-2528); Ground Floor, Bonifacio Technology Center, 31st St. corner 2nd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City (632) 856-2027; and at the St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center, Maharlika Highway, Bgy. 2, Sto. Tomas, Batangas (6343) 778-4811. For more information about The Zen Institute and its weight management programs, visit and like them on Facebook at www.facebook. com/ZenMedicalSpa.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

livingwell Happy trip with practical

energy. Before leaving, remove negative energy by washing the crystals under running water. You can also bring oils like lavender or even oil spray to refresh the room’s energy. Be positive as well, Master Hanz commented, by avoiding arguments with travel companions so you won’t bring the negative energy back home. “Our energy is so weak during travel that we absorb almost anything.” When staying in a hotel or resort, Master Consider carrying lucky travel Feng Shui Hanz said, avoid the end-corner room since charms like the Blue Rhinoceros and Elephant the energy in that area is usually super sharp charm for protection against theft or robbery. and brings complexity. Also avoid rooms in You can also try the Evil Eye charm against front of an elevator and garbage-dumping ill-intentions or negative energy. Every country area. “If you smell something different inside has a different set of tradition or rituals, so your room, transfer to another one. A sick we might absorb their negative energy when person may have occupied the room or there’s we visit. Those needing protection may bring a dead animal in the area.” Turquoise stones, while the wealth sheet helps When inside the room, he advises travelers in closing business deals, or you can also try to flip the blanket or pillows, move the bed, the Traveling Buddha or Crystal Globe for tables and chairs a bit to keep the energy travel luck and good fortune. moving. Don’t arrange the slippers in front Once the destination is reached, try of the bed since it signifies that you are being to follow simple Feng Shui practices like asked to leave the room. knocking on the door of the hotel room the first time you enter “to give respect to the energy inside the room.” Silly as it sounds, Feng Shui is important when you may talk to the room and tell the energy inside that you are staying temporarily, you travel because when we Master Hanz said. are on the road, our energy is You can also keep the room well-lit. scattered so we have to secure it. If possible, keep the lights open when you leave the room. Open a window to allow the positive Other travel tips brought out by Master energy to come in. Take a shower with salt Hanz include bringing a scarf to help cover to release the negative energy. a mirror facing the bed, and avoid touching Create some the Holy Bible because it has a very strong noise as well, he energy which normal people cannot handle. said, to move “If you open a drawer and saw the Holy Book, the energy leave it that way. Read a magazine around. Open or newspaper instead.” the television Finally, he said, do not sleep under set, flush the a ceiling with a beam because it will bring toilet then close heavy energy, and put pictures of loved ones its door. Or bring to connect with happy moments back home. small crystals like amethyst Though unusual, travelers are also or rose quartz and put advised to bring garlic and chili pepper them on the bedside table to drive away evil spirits. They can actually to absorb program the garlic and chili pepper to work the room’s in their favor by telling them to drive the negative bad spirits out of the room. To reinforce its positive energy, put the garlic and chili under sunlight or lamp for three minutes to keep them warm.

Feng Shui tips

BY ROBERT R. REQUINTINA

Do you ever knock on your hotel room door before you enter? Chances are—NO! How about lugging garlic or chili pepper in your bag when you travel? Sounds odd, but these are some of the practical measures to maintain effective Feng Shui during our frequent travels here and abroad. The ancient Chinese art or practice of creating harmonious surroundings also matters to keep trips happy, memorable, and safe. “Feng Shui is important when you travel because when we are on the road, our energy is scattered so we have to secure it,” says Master Hanz Cua, Asia’s youngest Feng Shui master. According to him, meditation is best before embarking on a trip to help shield or protect our aura. Master Hanz also shared interesting tips on positive Feng Shui related to traveling.

Visit Master Hanz Cua at Level 1, EDSA Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City. Send SMS to 0922-829-0382 or visit www.masterhanzcua.com. Master Hanz Cua also offers services on Astrology, Tarot and Face Reading, and Chakra Meditation. He is a Master Practitioner in Feng Shui Course (Grandmaster Lilian Too Consultant Institute), Master Consultant in Purple Star Astrology (School of Chinese MetaphysicsSingapore) and received diplomas in Feng Shui, Bazi and I-Ching (EBH Institute-Singapore), Masters in Chinese Astrology and in Face Reading (Master Academy Joey Yap, Malaysia), Certified Tarot Reader (Universal Class Florida, USA), Basic and Advance ESP Course (Innermind Development Institute by Jimmy Licauco) and Registered Nurse (Specializes in Psychology, Hypnosis and Life Coaching).

EXPER IENCE T R AV E L A N D L I V I NG // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 201 4

encounter

By Tet Defensor

Mad about

TRAVEL The travel industry is on a roll. Spending the weekend in some exotic destination is no longer reserved for the chosen few. Thanks to the budget-friendly rates of airlines and tour packages, anyone can just pack a bag, hop on a plane and relax for a few days. >>

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

2 1 Lake Mainit, the fourth largest lake in the Philippines, located between Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte 2 Puerto Prinsesa Subterranean River Park known for its karst mountain landscape 3 Bangui wind farm at Ilocos Norte 4 Spend a fun weekend in Singapore 5 Paz Alberto of Ark Travel

"Traveling is not a luxury anymore, it's now a way of life," remarked Maria Paz R. Alberto, President & General Manager of Ark Travel Express Inc. Unlike in the past when only fortunate beings are blessed with the opportunity to board longhaul flights to Europe, nowadays even kids and teenagers can backpack to any part of the world. The fast-paced global environment has resulted in a soaring interest among consumers to visit new places. And because everything is just a click away, there is

torn down. The Internet is now a major advertising tool, constantly teasing consumers to take advantage of cheap travel rates. Buyers can book their much-needed vacation with just one click. The brisk travel business is challenging travel agencies like Ark. Alberto admits the convenience of online booking has affected retail sales; however there is a bright side to all these 4 changes. The increasing number of local and international travelers is giving the local economy a growing curiosity among Inter- a major boost. net users to discover the world “Everything is online now, outside their comfort zone. People and you cannot fight that,” she have become more adventurous, emphasized. As a major player willing to try out new experiences in the industry she feels it is or visit faraway places. important to work with such Alberto added that the current fast-paced lifestyle has contributed to the yearning for an adventure-filled weekend. “People “It's good that gov't are so stressed and so when they announces all the have the time, they really want holidays in advance; to go on a vacation," she said. No doubt the walls that used to this will encourage prohibit ordinary individuals from locals to plan their trips” —Alberto exploring the world have been

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

significant changes. For instance, apart from utilizing traditional marketing tools, businesses are disseminating information via the social networks. “I still view it as an advantage. For example, everyone has a Facebook account, and so businesses can use it to promote their products,” she said. She admits that the Internet has simplified travel arrangements. Everything can be booked with just one click. But as an industry practitioner, she still recommends the expertise of an agency for those traveling in groups whether for leisure or business. It’s easy to go online and just book, but you are limited to what is being advertised. What if you wish to make a side trip to this other city or extend your stay? "With the Internet, it's just point to point. You do not have much choice. But if you work with an experienced travel agent, you are presented with several options, plus the agency can always negotiate for a better price,” she said. Budget-conscious consumers prefer online travel arrangements because most of the time, hotel and airline rates come out cheaper. “But what if you were not able to use the ticket? If you bought it online, then you cannot get a refund. But if you bought it from a travel agency you can still get your money back. Online booking is cheap, because everything is electronic, you do not interact with another person. But what if you have questions? What if you have to complain? If you work with an agent, you can give them a call and complain all you want,” she said. The success of a travel business lies in relationship building. “We don’t just sell, we take care of all details,” she said. The staff at Ark travel assists clients with their visa requirements, create itineraries according to their travel agenda, negotiate for the best airfare and hotel rates, they even offer 24-hour assistance for the duration of their client’s trip. "We can even brief them if they are visiting the country for the first time." Aside from running Ark Travel, Alberto is one of the officers of Travel Innovators Inc., an association of industry practitioners. The group is responsible for the annual "Travel Madness Expo," a three day event that offers the best travel deals from exhibitors like major airline carriers, tourism

boards, cruise lines, and outbound travel agencies. Frequent travelers all over the country actually prepare months in advance for the three-day "madness," by planning their vacation for the coming year and saving up for their expenses. “It's good that the government announces all the holidays for the coming year in advance, because this will encourage locals to plan their trips” she said. Doors officially open at 10am but lines can build up as early as 7am. “Travelers can take advantage of the good deals that are only offered during the Travel Madness Expo, even airlines reserve their

Standing, from left: Vernon Prieto (Director, Travel Innovators, Inc.); Dorothy Lauron-Aytona (Committee, Travel Madness Expo) and April Rose R. Zablan (Business Development Officer, BPI Emerging Markets Card Banking). Seated, from left: Raymond Michael A. Tee (President, Travel Innovators, Inc.); Maria Paz Alberto (VP, Travel Innovators, Inc.) and Abraham Daniel Macatangay (AVP, BPI Emerging Markets Card Banking)

Travelers can take advantage of the good deals that are only offered during the Travel Madness Expo. best rates for the Expo. If you get a good deal, then you still have extra cash for shopping. For Filipinos traveling is not complete without shopping,” she joked. For local travelers looking for exciting weekend destinations, Alberto recommends Bohol, Surigao, Ilocos and Palawan. If they want to shop for the weekend then there’s ever-reliable Hong Kong and Singapore.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

escape

‘Silk’

SMOOTH AS

There’s no question that the NUVALI eco-city development in Sta. Rosa, Laguna is the most promising piece of property development within the South Luzon corridor. It certainly is poised to capture the attention of urbanites as it burgeons to become a truly flourishing mixed-use community. And making it an even more attractive location of choice for businesses, families and other groups is the presence of establishments with amenities that are as smooth as “silk” and definitely hard to resist. The newly opened Seda NUVALI is one of them. As “seda” means “silk” in Filipino, Seda NUVALI promises a “fluid guest experience,” according to General Manager Jeffrey Enriquez. “Locational advantages, contemporary environment and seamless service weave together the fiber of a highly memorable stay. Its dedication to hospitality and value essence threads it to be the leading urban lifestyle hotel chain in the Philippines,” says Enriquez. And what makes Seda NUVALI different from the rest is not only because of its contemporary lifestyle facilities and advantage in location but also service and

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

By RORY VISCO PHOTOS BY PATRICK UY

value essence to provide guests with a highly memorable experience. Enriquez said they made sure that the surrounding community is always part of the attraction of any hotel property bearing the Ayala Land Inc. (ALI)owned Seda brand. “Seda hotels are situated within or in proximity to ALI growth centers with high visibility and accessibility. We offer a distinct Seda experience with our friendly guest engagement and efficient assistance delivering a sustainable brand promise.” At the onset, it was clear that businessmen are the targets of Seda NUVALI, which was established by ALI subsidiary AyalaLand Hotels and Resort Corp. (AHRC). But this eventually evolved to include young families and locals plus the corporate offices and multinational firms that surround the area. Naturally, occupancy rate picked up faster than expected since its opening last March, which was not surprising considering that many NUVALI community folks have long been waiting for it to open, plus the inherent reputation and credibility of the Ayala brand. And it’s not difficult to track their guest list—weekdays are for employees and guests

of the companies operating in the area, while weekends are for families and individuals who attend NUVALI events, whether they are fun runs, wakeboarding events, or those who go biking or even dining and shopping at the various retail establishments in the area. Surely, Enriquez promises that guests won’t be disappointed in their stay. Aside from its earth tones that depict a natural sense of

As “seda” means “silk” in Filipino, Seda NUVALI promises a “fluid guest experience”

1 Seda Nuvali in Sta. Rosa 2 The lobby features paintings by Jaime Zobel de Ayala and images by Paco Guerrero 3 Seda boasts stunning contemporary pieces, like Kenneth Cobonpue’s famous lounge chairs 4 E-lounge for techies

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

escape

Aside from its earth tones that depict a natural sense of calm, intimacy and fluidity, Seda NUVALI has that casual feel to it that combines a business and resort ambiance. 5 Misto restaurant serves international dishes and local fare 6 Gourmet treats at Misto, an Italian word for ‘mixed’ 7 Guests will be greeted by modern and seamless design elements 8 Seda’s charming lakeside swimming pool 9 Rooms have a warm and casual feel

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

calm, intimacy and fluidity, Seda NUVALI has that casual feel to it that combines a business and resort ambiance. And why not? “The quietly modern design of the building facade does not detract from but complements its natural surroundings. Other architectural elements like stone cladding and lattice work were used in both the hotel interior and exterior to provide a seamless transition between both spaces.” Credit goes to Seda NUVALI’s architect and interior designer, Conrado Onglao, who maintains a benchmark look for all

Seda hotels that also incorporates pieces from multi-awarded furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue, masterful painting works by Don Jaime Zobel de Ayala in the lobby, life-like and vivid images courtesy of virtuoso photographer Paco Guerrero, and artworks by multi-awarded furniture, home accessories and jewelry designer Ann Pamintuan. The 150-room hotel with a modest 33-member staff also has meeting venues for up to 100 persons, a gym, and lakeside swimming pools that serve as its foremost

8 9

charms. And by the end of the year, the Straight Up roof deck bar will be launched, featuring al fresco spaces that provide a spectacularly stunning view of Laguna and surrounding countryside. Of course, AyalaLand Hotels and Resort Corp. will open more Seda hotels in the future, which will bask in the brand’s success formula. “The next Seda hotels will be located in well-planned growing areas like Makati, Quezon City, FTI, Iloilo, Bacolod and Palawan, beside business hubs, retail environments, and entertainment destinations that are easily accessible.”

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

escape

Chill at Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa

eing the busybody that you are, you would certainly lose track of time that you don’t notice it’s almost half of the year already. But by this time of the year, the weather would be most challenging that going on long trips may not be an option if you want to recharge your battered body after a stressful week at work. There are, however, R&R destinations that are easy to visit yet rich in natural wonders and cultural offerings, and one place continues to be a top option among busy urbanites: Antipolo City in Rizal. Aside from its close proximity to the metro, Antipolo has an exceptionally cool climate, and offers one of the most spectacular views of Metro Manila. Not only that, Antipolo has a secret gem that’s definitely worth taking some time off to enjoy: Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa.

Secret sanctuary

Boasting of the only hanging garden and spa in the Philippines, Luljetta’s is where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Laguna de Bay and Manila skyline in this truly memorable getaway.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Patterned after the tiered paddies of the famed Banaue Rice Terraces up north, Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa is an exclusive haven of tropical-inspired lounges and massage cottages. The scenery of lush, green plants and trees that abound is truly a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Relaxation is guaranteed at Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa, as it was named one of the Top 15 summer destinations near Metro Manila by the Philippines Travel Guide, a prestigious travel destination website.

Healthy getaway

So what’s in store for you there? A lot, most especially if you love nature or if you advocate healthy living. The Spa Packages are, no doubt, the top attractions. Visitors can avail of combined spa services and get access to water amenities at the same time. Choose from the six spa services available—Cleanse, Relax, Recharge, Revitalize, Serenity, Indulgence—and you’re sure to indulge in an unforgettable time of relaxation. But if you really want to be pampered with water amenities full

blast, there are packages that will suit your taste—and at a discounted rate, no less! Skilled therapists are always ready to give customers the soothing touch of healing which relaxes the nerves and muscles. They are well-trained to take care of your tired and weary feet, hands and shoulders as they welcome you in this personal paradise.

Authentic Filipino experience

Wearing traditional batik from Zamboanga, guests at Luljetta’s are served with tarragon tea, with its aromatic, soothing and calming effect that’s perfect while lounging on the pool, having your spa treatments or simply watching the sun set. Healthy and decadent dishes are also offered at Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa courtesy of their newly built restaurant. Made with traditional materials and furnishings from all over the Philippines, you could really feel the homey Pinoy experience. Try the special Chef’s menu made up of Corn soup, tasty Crab Spring Roll, filling Pasta—a choice of Puttanesca or Tuna Pesto Sauce, healthy Gourmet Fish and soothing Lemongrass Tea.

You shouldn’t also pass up the opportunity to explore Luljetta’s impeccable landscape. There, you can experience the divine afterimages of sunrise and sunset at its best. From the hanging garden, sunrise is pretty remarkable, but the sunset is a sight to behold where “sun catchers” will surely appreciate the spectacle from the infinity pool. Families and groups can also enjoy time in this unique tourist destination through their private pool party packages. Depending on pool packages, guests can use the infinity pool at Luljetta’s Buddha Lounge, use of sauna, heated jacuzzi, hydro massage, locker room, and access to lounges. There’s added foot spa and massage if you upgrade your private pool package. Everyone deserves a harmonious holiday to fill the gaps of happiness and hullabaloo. If your idea of a perfect getaway consists of natural views, plus a bit of adventure and spa, then Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa is a haven you must go to. Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa is located at Loreland Farm Resort in Barangay San Roque, Antipolo City, with contact numbers 622-8779 or 0917-5444432. It is open Thursdays to Sundays 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Mondays to Wednesdays can be arranged or booked. For more about Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa, visit www.bienvenidotours.com.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

escape

TRAVEL IN

TUNE WITH LIFE’S SIMPLE PLEASURES AT TUNE HOTEL ASEANA CITY By RORY VISCO PHOTOS BY RHOY COBILLA

There’s no doubt that there’s a breed of travelers—be it business or leisure—that looks for simple but quality accommodations whenever they go on trips. For them, hotels would more often than not serve as mere “sleeping quarters” since they will be out most of the time, either attending business meetings or checking out the city’s top attractions. And these are the travelers Tune Hotels is most certainly tapping. “Tune Hotels around the world are designed for travelers who look for a ‘no fuss, no frills’ type of stay, but definitely, they will still get their money’s worth with the kind of value service we provide,” explains Benjamin Martinez, Director of Sales and Marketing in the Philippines for Red Planet Hotels, owner and operator of Tune Hotel Aseana City in Parañaque City, the 9th Tune Hotel in the country which opened recently. The company owns the other Tune Hotels located in Ermita, Makati, Quezon City, Ortigas in Pasig City, Angeles City in Pampanga, Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro. There’s no doubt that with each Tune Hotel, simplicity is at its best. Just like the other Tune Hotels, Tune Hotel Aseana City has the standard black and white hue, from

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

the façade to the interiors, while the rooms, all 200 of them, measure around 15 square meters, again a standard for Tune Hotel properties worldwide. But while it scrimps in size, amenities are definitely above-average, if not top-notch already for its category (definitely no sleeping quarters here). Travelers will surely enjoy the soft and subtle “Heavenly” beds that most 5-star hotels provide for guests’ restful sleep every night, plus “Power Showers” where water gushes out powerfully yet soothingly caresses the body after a tiring day. And while you lay in bed, the cooling comfort from the room’s powerful air-conditioner will surely lull you into deep slumber. Rooms have high-speed wi-fi Internet access for those who want to stay connected to their business or social media concerns. Keycards are used for safe and secure access to rooms and security is taken care of with Tune Hotel’s extensive CCTV infrastructure. To cater to the physically challenged, Tune Hotel Aseana City has 2 rooms that offer utmost ease of movement and convenience to differently abled guests, again another standard in Tune Hotels everywhere.

2 3

Tune Hotels around the world are designed for travelers who look for a ‘no fuss, no frills’ type of stay but definitely, they will still get their money’s worth with the kind of value service we provide. The Department of Tourism (DOT) classifies Tune Hotels as 3 star but Martinez emphasizes they are a value-service hotel that travelers will surely love. “We may be a budget hotel but the comfortable and quality amenities, the 5-star service, the clean looks and the strategic location of our properties where guests can find everything to be within their reach give us a definite advantage over our competitors,” Martinez gushes. True enough, Tune Hotel Aseana City, while simple, offers the best amenities that provide for life’s modest and uncomplicated pleasures that travelers look for in a hotel. No delusions of grandeur; just straightforward yet value-laden amenities coupled with effortless, first-rate service. Tune Hotels in the Philippines are owned and operated by Red Planet Hotels, a hotel investment company focused on

Asia’s fast-growing budget travel markets, with value-for-money hotels that it owns and operates under a franchise agreement with Tune Hotels based in Malaysia. The next Tune Hotel to open will be the 189-room Tune Hotel Ayala Avenue Makati City in November 2014. For inquiries and reservations, call (632) 519-0888 or email philippines@tunereservations.com.

1 Simplicity at its best 2 'No fuss, no frills' type of stay 3 Small yet quality amenities 4 VIPs at the grand opening of Tune Hotel Aseana City

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

escape

Life in HARMONY

When I first heard about Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol, I immediately thought of erstwhile actress Alona Alegre. The thought also made me more aware of my age—but that’s another story. My Boholano friend, who was with me, probably read my mind. He said, “The beach was named after Alona Alegre, the actress. She was shooting a movie on that beach in the '70s, wearing nothing but a skimpy swimsuit. Since then, the beach was associated with her name.” That settled it then.

By Lester Gopela Hallig

Of course, from our end, we have a different kind of settlement in mind. Home in Alona Beach was Harmony Hotel, a good 150 meters away from the beach itself, built in 2009. We booked our hotel through Agoda, whose resourceful people allowed us to discover this homey hotel. Despite the distance, we did not mind. After all, we wanted to explore this side of Bohol, and walking was the way to achieve this end. It was quite a discovery, really, just loitering around the sandy corridors of Alona. There

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

were restaurants, shops, spas, and even the odd pit stop. Harmony Hotel may look deceptively small from the outside, but try coming in. The place is massive, considering that it has only 18 rooms. There is a 140 square-meter pool, complete with jacuzzi and a kiddie pool. It boasts of a garden and paths, all teeming with greens. Indeed a welcome sight after a tired day of walking and touring under the sun. Right in the center, standing proud is the pavilion which doubles as a restaurant and bar,

which features acoustic nights from time to time. The rooms are something else. They are larger than the usual resort rooms: 33 to 44 square meters, each with an 8 square meter balcony or terrace. This means families and big groups of friends could stay together without feeling cramped. Each room has a split-type air-conditioning unit, hot and cold shower, and double beds (extra beds are available upon request). The rooms are classified

as standard, deluxe, and family. The latter types feature cable TV while a refrigerator is present in all rooms. Good news, too: the Wi-Fi is strong in all places within the hotel. On hand to welcome guests, as had become his daily habit, was Harmony Hotel owner Karl Stig Martin Miettinen. As we marveled at the steady stream of guests coming and going, Karl smiled, “All we wanted to do was build a nice hotel. I wanted to do something for the Filipino people, by giving them jobs.” Since arriving in the Philippines in 2005, Karl, who hails from Sweden, said he fell in love with the country and never looked back. In fact, from among these local trips, it was in Panglao where he felt the most intense kind of love. “I thought Panglao was greener, freer, and nicer,” he shared. “I also noticed that it is cleaner here. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all these natural vegetation. The effect, at least to me, was more relaxing and laidback. I have been to the well-known beaches in the country but Alona is not as crazy.” We cannot help but agree with Karl on that last point. Alona Beach appeared like a younger, more behaved cousin of the country’s more populated and popular beaches like Boracay. The crowd was a lot more subdued, none of the frantic and frenetic mob that saturates the others. There are restaurants lined up along Alona Beach, but they give a vibe more for dining than for loud partying. While there were certainly no raves or discos happening, there was, however, the group of fire-dancers that regaled locals and foreigners with their daring stunts. The real treat for visitors, apparently, was getting them involved in the burning act. Good thing all this was done in the spirit of fun and safety. It was in the same spirit that the hotel was built. Asked why it was named Harmony, Karl let out a hearty laugh, “It was a long and

1 Harmony Hotel is a few meters away from Alona Beach, named after ‘70s actress Alona Alegre 2 The pavilion by the pool, doubles as a restaurant and bar 3 The rooms are exceptionally spacious, and can accommodate an entire family

tedious process. We had many names in mind. When the word ‘harmony’ came up, it felt right. When we considered the word, we thought about building and uplifting people together in a place where they can relax and be in harmony with nature. At least that’s what we hoped for!” Truth be told, they proceeded to construct Harmony Hotel with confidence, knowing fully well that it would become an Alona Beach fixture. “We thought Harmony Hotel would be big with tourists. People would go looking for a clean, safe, and comfortable place to stay in,” he said. “See, our rooms are larger than the usual.

I travel much in my life and I prefer big rooms with high ceilings. That became, more or less, the benchmark for the Harmony Hotel rooms.” He stated that the hotel took inspiration from colonial-style architecture, complete with white stones, cleaner lines, and minimal design. The pieces of furniture found throughout Harmony Hotel are Bohol-made. Karl added, “Alona has everything. What we planned on doing was providing all the necessary things to make our guests’ stay memorable and satisfying. We have our own generator, so no brownouts happen at Harmony. Even when

typhoon Haiyan hit, we never ran out of electricity and water.” Since its opening, Harmony Hotel has attracted Filipinos (their biggest market), Koreans, and Chinese. Karl remarked that European guests have been increasing. “More and more Europeans are finding us. We attribute that to word of mouth and through the Internet.” The feedback has been kind to Harmony, too. Guests not only approve of the accommodation and the food (yes, the meals at Harmony Hotel are very affordable even for penny-pinching tourists and very satisfying with their generous portions) but also the peace that the hotel provides.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

dailychow

SEAFOOD

dining galore

It has become a much-loved food hub for foodies—the seafood foodies, that is—particularly the young professionals and even families, they who love the sight of oyster and other favorite seafood fare and would quickly devour them once put on the table. This is Marina restaurant, which for over 2 decades has become synonymous to good seafood (oysters, specifically) and other authentic food bestsellers for that delightful dining experience. The Makati branch of Marina, which opened late 2013, has been buzzing with great dining and unsurpassed service quality, making that busy corner of Rockwell Drive and Kalayaan Avenue in Makati City come alive with bustling dining activity never seen before. So add this 9th branch of Marina to its list of branches that unfailingly serves the same great-tasting dishes that the popular restaurant chain has become known for. If you ask why just 9 branches

after two decades of operations, it is because of the company’s policy of maintaining very few branches. "The selection of a future site for a new branch entails careful planning and strategic thinking," says Marina Sales Head Maribeth Martinez. Even until now, the restaurant is not available for franchising. The idea is to allow the company to focus on managing well the different branches. At present, aside from the Makati branch, Marina branches are located in Quezon City, Pasay City, at Metrowalk, which cater to the Pasig area, and at Market! Market! for its customers in Taguig City. The secret of Marina’s success and longevity is credited to the restaurant’s expertise in developing food dishes that meet the discriminating tastes of its regular patrons. Credit goes to Marina’s R&D team that continues to expertly whip up menu additions that will address the needs of their

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

customers. By coming up with new dishes from time to time and maintaining food quality and consistency, guests are assured of the best quality food and service, regardless of which Marina branch they go to dine. It also pays that Marina specializes in Ilonggo dishes that give them an enviable edge over their competitors. To be able to cater to what diners look for in the food they eat, Marina makes sure that they are abreast of current trends in the market. With this, the welltrained Marina chefs, who all hail from Iloilo, work on the dishes they have in mind and present them for approval. Dining space is also something that Marina Makati can boast of, having the capacity to seat almost 200 patrons at a time. The ground floor airconditioned dining area can easily accommodate up to 50 guests, while the al fresco dining area can seat up to 80 guests. Designed with a chic and modern look to distinguish it from the common Filipino motif of most restaurants, Marina is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. the next day. Live acoustic entertainment is available every night from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Guests at Marina Makati are also spoiled for choices with the restaurant’s various ongoing promos like the Breakfast Buffet for P199, Halo-Halo & Sorbetes All-You-Can for P149, Sizzling Hot Deals for P99, Beerkada Bucket for P299, group meals, and half-price on all beers during Frosty Hours. For more updates, follow Marina on Twitter (@marinaseafood) and like them on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ marinaoysters.

‘FIESTA’

Feeling

every day

Many Filipinos love fiestas, those unique celebrations commonly observed even until this day and age of modern technology and fast-paced lifestyles. Whether it’s in a small barangay in the metro or a town in the provinces, a fiesta is one occasion always looked forward to by anyone, young and old alike. And a “fiesta” would never be a true feast if there’s no food—glorious food. The food is what many think about and look out for when going to a fiesta for a true gastronomically enticing experience. But you don’t really have to wait for a fiesta to happen just to partake of food galore. Enjoy gastronomic offerings prepared the traditional way of a fiesta at, nowhere else, La Fiesta, the newly opened and the largest Filipino buffet restaurant in town. Located at the SM Mall of Asia Seaside by the Bay, Pasay City, La Fiesta covers a 1,200-square meter dining space that features over 150 tables that can accommodate more than 500 guests. Food never comes short at La Fiesta, with more than 200 varieties of all authentic Filipino food from appetizers to main and side dishes served daily, coupled with 1 The Filipino corner includes fiesta staples like lechon, crispy pata and other sizzling favorites 2 The daily feast 3 A warm welcome from the hospitable staff

unlimited drinks like tamarind, pineapple, and “dalandan” juices, even pink and blue lemonade, all types of sodas, all-natural Filipino coffee and tea, and local alcohol like San Miguel Beer. A relaxing “Bahay Kubo” and comfortable sofas at the waiting areas immediately greet guests and diners, and provide a sunset view of the seaside and the MOA Amusement Park that features the “MOA Eye,” the country’s tallest ferris wheel. There is a segregated smoking area on the side and a spacious parking lot. Inside, feel the cool and relaxing air and marvel at the architectural designs of local Filipino artists, from the chandelier, handcrafted flowerlike ceiling, long wooden dining tables, ergonomically designed cushion chairs with round tables,

and big porcelain vases. The warmth and hospitality of the welcoming staff wearing Filipino-inspired creations are very cordial to make you feel truly welcome to a Filipino fiesta place. Eat all you can at their various food stations like the Seafood Grilled Corner that includes all types of fish and tuna fresh from Davao, or the barbeque section with juicy chicken wings and inasal, pork ribs, liempo, roasted beef and lamb, and the Filipinostyle Shawarma. Partake of all-time Filipino favorites at the Filipino corner, with flavorful traditional and authentic Filipino dishes like Kare-Kare, Tinola and Sinampalukang Manok, Bulalo, Crispy Pata, Pinakbet, Bicol Express, Bopis and Dinuguan.

Be amazed at their “Sizzling” section with ready-to-cook juicy and crispy “Lechon de Leche” (roasted pig) and Pork, Tuna and Chicken Sisig, plus appetizer favorites such as Kilawin, Salad, and Dried Fish to tickle your taste buds. Munch on Pinoy-style pizza with native sausages together with salted eggs and cheese, twirl on sweetened and meaty pasta, or even the classic “Pancit Palabok,” home-made noodles topped with salted fish flakes, cooked shrimp, boiled eggs, pork meat, chicharon (crispy pork rind) and special sauce. For those who love ubiquitous street food, La Fiesta’s “Street Food Corner” serves crispy chicken skin, kikiam, fish ball, quail eggs, balut, day-old chicken or barbecue “isaw” (pork or chicken innards) for that true casual on-street dining but set on a classy restaurant ambience. Those with a sweet tooth can savor La Fiesta’s more than 40 dessert types, from fruits, salads, cakes, halo-halo (a mix

of native fruits with shaved ice and evaporated milk), ice cream courtesy of the roving “sorbetero” ice cream cart, or Pinoy “kakanin” favorites like bibingka, cassava, halayang ube and traditional sweets like pastillas and yema. While enjoying good food, be entertained by top-notch acoustic band performances daily, Pinoy folk dances and cultural shows courtesy of the award-winning “Banda Kawayan” (Bamboo Orchestra) every Friday and Saturday nights and the whole day of Sundays. There is also an entertainment area with splendidly colorful Filipino artwork, a natural magnet for guests for impromptu group photo taking with performers or “selfie” sessions. Make every day a “fiesta” day at La Fiesta, the largest Filipino buffet-style restaurant that offers affordable buffet prices (P550 Lunch and P750 Dinner). For reservations call 556-1111, 556-1222, 556-1333, or “Like” their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ LaFiestaLargestFilipinoBuffet.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

fiesta date! Durian Festival

Tagum City | August to September Geraldine Abella, Tourism Officer 370-1424 / 217-3819 This month-long celebration showcases the delectable fresh durian produced by the Plant Now Pay Later (PNPL) beneficiaries and other durian growers in the city. The Festival highlights also include culinary competitions featuring durian as the main ingredient. Various events showcase the talents and creativity of students and F&B professionals in creating cakes, pastries and bread, coffee, cocktails, and even mockails.

Pagpasidungog Festival

Panitan, Capiz | August 6-10 Mayor Katherine D. Belo Municipality of Panit-an, Capiz (036) 634-0665 / 634-0236 The word pagpasidungog means “to honor.” The Panitan Municipal Government honors and recognizes Paniteños who have given something for the social, cultural, educational and economic development of the town. Pagpasidungog honors those whose successes in life give inspiration to our young generations. This festival also honors their kasimanwas who have brought fame, honor and recognition for Panitan.

Cagayan De Oro Golden Float Festival

Cagayan de Oro | August 27 Colorful and unique floats interpret the historical and cultural flavor of the city. The competition is participated in by government and civic organizations, and various academic institutions in the city.

Kagay-An Festival

Cagayan de Oro City | August 28 A street parade showcases Higaonon and Maranao influences on the city. The competition is joined in by schools and various groups.

Battle of Pinaglabanan

San Juan | August 30 The battle that sparked the Philippine Revolution of 1896 deserves a national celebration, no less. A Mass at 7 a.m. is followed by wreath-laying ceremony.

Hadang Festival

Calbayog City | September 1-8 Office of the Mayor, (055) 209-1776 Erlinda Calesa, Tourism Officer (055) 209-4041 / lindapcalesa@yahoo.com Jonas Lim, City Arts and Culture Officer (055)209-1646 This colorful festival refers to olden-day rituals performed by the locals as offering to their gods. Participants dance rhythmically during the festival, which is thought to cure illnesses, and bring a healthy harvest.

Feast of Nuestra Señora del Buensuceso

Parañaque City | September 1-9 541-8016 / 829-0691 The patron of the City of Parañaque was canonized on September 8, 2000. From then on, the day has been celebrated with a special Mass followed by a procession and an entertaining program.

Kadayawan sa Dabaw

Davao City | August 14-21 City Tourism Office, 222-9156 A thanksgiving celebration, the festival highlights include streetdancing, a floral float parade, cultural shows, and exhibits.

Anniversary of the Cry of Pugadlawin

Quezon City | August 23 444-7272 loc. 8843/8845 A historical event celebrated yearly with a flag-raising and a wreathlaying ceremony followed by a civic parade and a program.

Diyandi Festival

Iligan City | September 1 to October 2 Agnes Maingat, Tourism Officer (063) 221-3426 Diyandi is a ceremonial dance offering of the wedding union of Maranao men and Higaonon women, as well as their harvest, to the patron saint.

Buyloganay Festival

Ivisan, Capiz | September 6-10 Mayor Felipe Neri N. Yap Municipality of Ivisan, Capiz (036) 529-0088 The buyloganay word typifies Ivisan culture, characterized by the gesture of uniKagay-An Festival

Pagpasidungog Festival

ty and cooperation. It is celebrated in honor of patron saint St. Nicholas of Tolentino.

Kinaiyahan Festival

Dauin, Oriental Negros | Sept. 7 Office of the Mayor, Dauin, (035) 425-2073 Kinaiyahan celebrates the bounties of nature and underscores Dauin’s campaign to conserve its natural resources and attractions. All the clustered barangays of the municipality join the streetdancing and field presentations.

Kawayan Festival

Maragondon, Cavite | September 7 Office of the Mayor, Maragondon, Cavite (046) 412-0590 A group of street dancers parade indigenous materials. At the town plaza, visitors can marvel at an exhibit of bamboo products. Labo, Camarines Norte | Sept. 7-8 Mayor Wenifredo B. Oco Labo, Camarines Norte, (054) 447-6118 The festival is based on the epic story of Busig-On of Labo town who exemplified heroism and Bicolano values. The festival expresses the town’s distinct historical values and sentiments through a talent and skills competition, spiced up by the town’s tourist attractions.

Am-Among Festival

Bontoc, Mt. Province | Sept. 7 to 16 Am-Among commemorates Bontoc town’s founding anniversary by holding cultural shows and indigenous games.

World Heritage Cities Solidarity Day

Vigan City, Ilocos Sur | September 8 Vigan Tourism Office (077) 722-8778, 722-8776 The day is highlighted by events such as Repazzo de Vigan (Interactive Parade), Visita Museo, Comidas de Ayer (food fair), exhibits, and cultural and reenactment shows. Digos City | September 8 Edgardo Elera, Tourism Officer The highlight of the Araw ng Digos is made even more beautiful and electric with the Search for Miss Kadig’garan and the Kadig’garan dance contest showcasing the talents of the city's different tribes.

Araw Ng Digos

Digos City, Davao Del Sur | Sept. 8 Edgardo C. Elera, 272-1282 EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Singkaban Festival

Malolos, Bulacan | September 8-15 Arman Sta Ana, (6344) 791-6604 This festival of arts and culture honors Bulacan's patron saint Our Lady of Victory. Here, the traditional arts of balagtasan, folk dances and kundiman are in full display amidst the Singkaban arches. The festival is celebrated in conjunction with the Linggo ng Bulakan.

Busig-On Festival

Pista Kadig’garan

This week-long festivity starts with the opening of the “Taboan sa Dakbayan,” which displays the city’s abundance of products, followed by various cultural and sports activities, and culminates with a “Lechonan”, “Hudyaka sa Kadalanan” and the Pista Kadig’garan (see separate entry).

Linggo Ng Bulakan

Malolos, Bulacan | September 8 to 15 This week-long celebration takes visitors to a historical tour of the province, and features exhibits of Bulacan products. A cooking contest and an on-the-spot painting contest assures “audience participation.”

Flomolok Festival

South Cotabato | September 9-11 Cesar Sulit, Jr., Sr. Tourism Officer (083) 228-3447 Flomolok is a B’laan word that means “hunting grounds." The people of Polomolok commemorate their once-rich hunting grounds by showcasing their products, and a mix of socio-cultural presentations. Polomolok is the home of DOLE Philippines Inc.

Sayaw Lahi Festival

Naujan, Mindoro Oriental | Sept. 10 Office of the Mayor, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, (043) 208-3177 This festival of entertainment features all native dances performed on the streets by schools and barangay communities. Other highlights are the school band competition, live band concerts and awarding of outstanding Naujeños.

Banok-Banok Maradjao Karadjao Festival (Street Pageantry)

Surigao City | September 10 Roselyn B. Merlin, City Tourism Officer (086) 826-8064 This day-long Mardi Gras is marked by streetdancing; the Surigaonon’s way of thanking the city’s Patron saint San Nicolas de Tolentino for the bountiful blessings.

Victoria, Oriental Mindoro (043) 285-5446 Kapakyanan (“abundance”) showcases the bountiful harvest of fruits and crops. Streetdancing and a beauty pageant adopting agriculture as the central theme are the highlights of the day

Golden Harvest Festival Valencia City | September 14-21 Susan C. Ricare, (0908) 259-3395,

Ronda's annual fiesta includes a trade fair, a livelihood forum and streetdancing competition with dancemoves depicting the livelihood programs of the town.

Peñafracia Festival

Peñafrancia Village, Cotabato City September 18 (3rd Sunday) Fr. David Procalla, DCC Rosary Height Parish, Cotabato City In honor of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, pilgrims from neighboring areas converge in a fluvial procession at the Rio Grande de Mindanao carrying their images of the patron Saint. It is the only Peñafrancia festival in Mindanao.

Talakudong Festival

Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat September 18 Mayor Lina O. Montilla, Tacurong City (064) 384-2302 Talakundong is from the Ilonggo word kudong (“head covering”). This neo-ethnic cultural spectacle is spiced up with hilarious streetdancing and exhibition of the kudong accompanied by exotic percussion instruments. The week-long festivities open with a float parade and an agro-industrial fair showcasing Tacurong’s best agricultural and industrial products.

Binulig Festival

Panabo City | September 19-25 Jan Mari Café City Tourism & Investment Promotion Office (6384) 628-8683, 646-0234, 822-7466 local 121 Panabo’s mixed culture is celebrated, and the thanksgiving of the bounty of otop (banana) is interpreted in various shows, presentations, exhibits and showdowns.

Coco Festival

Am-Among Festival

Anniversary of the Battleof Pulang Lupa

Torrijos, Marinduque | September 13 Office of the Mayor, Torrijos, Marinduque (042) 753-0038 This event commemorates the first major victory of Filipino revolutionaries during the second phase of the Philippine Revolution— The Philippine-American War.

Kapakyanan Festival Victoria, Mindoro Oriental | September 14-15 Office of the Mayor

(088) 222-2180, (088) 828-2453 This Festival, as its name implies, is a grand display of varied rice and corn products. They are the central themes in the numerous competitions that include making floats, tableaus, cooking, and streetdancing. And then there's the fashion show of beautiful and creative gowns, barongs and other Filipino costumes made with rice and corn byproducts.

Voyadores Festival

Daraga, Albay | September 15 Joe Perez, Chief, Visitors Center, Naga City, (054) 811-3961 The historic transfer of the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia from her home shrine to the Naga Cathedral is reenacted in this festival. The festivity is named after the devotees who accompany and carry the Virgin’s image.

Kabuhian Festival Kinaiyahan Festival

Ronda, Cebu | September 18 (3rd Sunday of the month) Office of the Mayor, Ronda (038) 472-9068

Sanchez Mira, Cagayan | September 20-27 Vista Cac, Tourism Officer (078) 822-9303 / (0917) 811-8555 lgu_sanchezmira@yahoo.com They certainly use their coconuts, and take pride in having the distinction of being the town that has the most number of coconut trees in the region. This fact is evident in the agriindustrial trade fair and other activities where the “tree of life” is the star.

Ms. Iligan City

Iligan City | September 27 Iligan City Tourism Office, (063) 221-3426 Iligan's next Ambassador of Goodwill would be both beauty and brains, and a true-blue daughter of the city.

Megayon Festival

Zamboanga del Sur September 27 to 30 When the Subanens of Zamboanga del Sur give their thanks, it's in a most grandiose way, with authentic songs, dances and food.

Banigan Festival

Basey, Samar | September 28 Basey Tourism Office, (055) 276-1417 Basey's streetdance unmistakeably lays down the town's identity—the banig (mats). They're not flying carpets, but visitors sure get a high from the experience.

Balangiga Anniversary

Balangiga, Eastern Samar September 28 Office of the Mayor Municipality of Balangiga, Eastern Samar (055) 578-3018 Fe Campanero, Tourism Officer (0919) 962-3386 What was then a massacre that strained Filipino-American relations now serves as a celebration of peace and camaraderie between the two nations.

Dalit Festival

Tangub City | September 29 Baby Paller, 088-354-1591 A streetdancing and parade competition gives youthful life to the thanksgiving and tableau presentation.

Sinu-og Estokada Festival

Jagna, Bohol | September 29 Office of the Mayor, Jagna (6338) 238-2256 Sinu-og Estokada portrays the victory of the Christian militia over the marauding pirates, thereby depicting the celestial conflict between good and evil. Estokada (fencing or fighting with bladed instruments) movements have been modified to keep in time with rhythmic beats. The streetdancing participants don either good or rebellious angels.

Patabang Festival

Tapaz, Capiz | September 21-30 Mayor Rosemarie F. Gardose Tapaz, Capiz , (036) 538-2011 The festival is based on the Tapaznon's generosity and the value of pagpatabang, or watching each other's backs, which comes in handy during planting, harvesting, bayanihan, and fiestas (of course!). Simple yet enriching is what Tapaznons are, and you feel it all in a 10-day rush.

Nuang Festival

San Agustin, Isabela | September 26 Ma. Rosario M. Olaño, TOO I PGO, Isabela, (0920) 287-5403 boots3019@yahoo.com San Agustin's resident brutes—the over 500 water buffalos—take the stage as they are paraded, milked, and raced in day-long activities facilitated by the research and outreach office of the Isabela State University.

Angel Festival

San Rafael, Bulacan | September 29 Rev. Fr. Flint Capiral / Coun. Alvin Violago (044) 902-0086 How do cute angels dance? Find out, and be entertained by streetdancing schoolchildren wearing different angel costumes. The celebration of the feast day of Archangel St. Rafael looks ever more youthful every time.

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

directory DOT REGIONAL OFFICES Region NCR (National Capital Region) CATHERINE AGUSTIN: OIC 351 Gil Puyat Ave., JB Bldg. 1200 Makati City (632) 459-5200 loc. 101/102 (special projects) 212 (accreditation/finance/ personnel) ncr@tourism.gov.ph ncraris@tourism.gov.ph Region CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region) PURIFICACION S. MOLINTAS: Regional Director DOT Complex, Gov. Pack Road 2600 Baguio City (6374) 442-7014 / 619-1127 (6374) 442-8848 0918-9593009 dotregioncar@gmail.com pssmolintas@gmail.com Region I (Ilocos Region) MARTIN VALERA: Regional Director Oasis Country Resort Nat'l. Highway, Brgy. Sevilla 2500 San Fernando City La Union (6372) 888-2098/2411 / 242-1656 (63 2) 888-2098 0920-9617393 dotregion1@pldtdsl.net msv111@yahoo.com (Laoag Satellite Office) MILAGROS GONZALES: OIC Rm. 207, 2F Ilocano Heroes Hall 2900 Laoag City (6377) 771-1473 (6377) 772-0467 0920-6031850 dotlaoag@digitelone.com Region II BLESSIDA G. DIWA: Regional Director 29-A Rizal St., Tuguegarao City 3500 Cagayan (6378) 304-1503/1499 / 373-0786 dotr2@yahoo.com cvtourism2@gmail.com www.dotregion2.com.ph Region III (Central Luzon Region) RONALDO P. TIOTUICO: Regional Director Hilaga Village (formerly Paskuhan Village), 2000 San Fernando City Pampanga (6345) 961-2612/5617 0918-946-4586 / 0917-500-8351 0929-864-7485 tourismregion3@gmail.com support@visitmyphilippines.com (Angeles Satellite Office) G/F Marlim Mansions Hotel Bldg. Diamond Subd., Balibago 2900 Angeles City (6345) 625-8525 0939-904-5231 / 0917-506-2221 dot3_marlim@yahoo.com Region IV (Southern Tagalog Region) REBECCA V. LABIT: Regional Director G/F Dencris Business Center Halang, National Hwy., Calamba City, Laguna (6349) 508-0731 to 34 (6349) 508-0741/0760 region4@tourism.gov.ph lbeckylabit@gmail.com (MIMAROPA Office) 351 Gil Puyat Avenue JB Bldg.,1200 Makati City mtcastro2007@yahoo.com Region V (Bicol Region) MARIA ONG-RAVANILLA: Regional Director Regional Center Site, Rawis

4500 Legazpi City (6352) 481-5593 / 435-0085 482-0715/0712 0917-5583460 mariaravanilla@yahoo.com.ph dot_bicol@yahoo.com www.wowbicol.com Region VI (Western Visayas Region) ATTY. HELEN J. CATALBAS: OIC Western Visayas Regional Tourism Center, Capitol Grounds Bonifacio Drive, 5000 Iloilo City (6333) 337-5411 / 509-3550 (6333) 335-0245 0917-622-7979 / 0917-722-6691 deptour6@mozcom.com deptour6@yahoo.com www.westernvisayastourism. com.ph (Boracay Tourism Field Office) ARTEMIO "TIM" TICAR: OIC D' Mall, Stn 2, Balabag Boracay, Malay, 5608 Aklan (6336) 288-3689 0947-8528110 deptour6boracay@yahoo.com www.boracay.com (Bacolod Satellite Office) Doña Ceferina II Bldg. Door #4, 22nd St., Lacson 6100 Bacolod City (6334) 709-0626 Region VII (Central Visayas Region) ROWENA MONTECILLO: Regional Director G/F LDM Bldg. cor. Legaspi and MJ Cuenco Street 6000 Cebu City (6332) 412-1980 (Executive Assistant of RD Montecillo) (6332) 412-1967 (Administrative/Acctg. Div.) (6332) 254-3534 / 412-1980 (Planning and Statistics Office) (6332) 254-6650 (Product Development Div) (6332) 254-2811 / 412-1966 (Accreditation Div) dotcebu@gmail.com dotregion7@gmail.com dot7accounting@yahoo.com dot7statistics@gmail.com dot7prodev@gmail.com dot7accreditation@gmail.com (Bohol Satellite Office) Door 2, 2/F Sum Bldg., San Jose St., Brgy. Cogon 6300 Tagbilaran City (6338) 501-0143 Region VIII (Eatern Visayas Region) KARINA ROSA S. TIOPES: Regional Director Brgy. 25, Kanhuraw Hill, Magsaysay Blvd., 6500 Tacloban City, Leyte (6353) 832-0901 / 325-5279 321-2048 dotreg8@yahoo.com tiopeskrs@yahoo.com dottacloban@yahoo.com Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula) MARY JUNE G. BUGANTE: Regional Director Lantaka Hotel Bldg. NS Valderosa Street 7000 Zamboanga City (6362) 992-6242 (6362) 993-0030 0917-7105219 dotr9@yahoo.com mjune_b@yahoo.com (Dapitan Satellite Office) City Library Bldg. 7101 Dapitan City (6365) 213-6616 / 213-6787 dotsatoffice@yahoo.com Region X (Northern Mindanao Region) CATALINO E. CHAN III: Regional Director

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

Gregorio Pelaez Sports Center A. Velez Street 9000 Cagayan de Oro City (638822) 723696 / 726394 (88) 856-4048 / 880-0172 880-3637 0920-9531810 dotr10_nm@yahoo.com nmtravelpower10.com.ph Region XI (Southern Mindanao Region) ART BONCATO: Assistant Secretary for TRCRG/ Regional Director Rm. 512 5/F LANDCO Corporate Ctr. Bldg., J.P. Laurel Avenue, 8000 Davao City (6382) 225-1940 (6382) 221-0070/6955 dotr11@gmail.com dotr11@yahoo.com artboncato@gmail.com www.discoverdavao.com www.davaocity.gov.ph Region XII (South Central Mindanao Region) NELLY NITA N. DILLERA: Regional Director 2/F Hua Hing Bldg., Sinsuat Ave., Cotabato City (6364) 421-7868/1110/7868 0917-7141524 dotregion12@yahoo.com dillera.nelly@gmail.com (Koronadal Satellite Office) 2/F Sienna Complex, Alunan Avebue 9506 Koronadal City (6383) 228-8667 Region XIII (CARAGA Administrative Region) LETICIA DC TAN: Regional Director G/F, Grateful Realty Corp. Bldg., 008 Pili Drive, 8600 Butuan City (6385) 341-8413/5928 (6385) 815-6040 0917-7035617 dotr13@yahoo.com

CONSULAR OFFICES

China 4896 Pasay Road Dasmariñas Vill., Makati City (632) 844-3148 loc. 101 for operator visasection_ph@sina.com Colombia Aurora Tower, 18F Malvar St. Araneta Center 0810 (632) 911-3101 (632) 911-2846 France 16th floor, Pacific Star Building cor. Gil Puyat and Makati Ave. 1200 Makati City (632) 857-6900 chancellerie.ambafrance. manille@gmail.com Germany 25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue cor. Gil Puyat Avenue 1261 Makati City (632) 702-3000 visa@mani.diplo.de India 2190 Paraiso Street Dasmariñas Village Makati City (632) 843-0101 / 843-0102 amb@embindia.org.ph Indonesia 185 Salcedo Street Legazpi Village, Makati City P.O. Box 1671 MCPO Metro Manila (632) 892-5061/68 fungsipensosbud @yahoo.com.ph Italy 6th Floor Zeta Condominium 191 Salcedo Street Legazpi Village, Makati City (632) 892-4531/2/3 informazioni.manila@esteri.it ambitaly@surfshop.net.ph Japan 2627 Roxas Boulevard 1300 Pasay City (632) 551-5710 jicc-mnl@embjapan.ph

Saudi Arabia 389 Gil Puyat Ave. Ext. Makati City (632) 890-9735 / 856-4444 phemb@mofa.gov.sa Singapore 505 Rizal Dr., Bonifacio Global City 1634 Taguig City (632) 856-9922 singmb_mnl@sgmfa.gov.sa Spain 5F A.C.T. Tower, 135 Gil Puyat Ave. 1251 Makati City (632) 818-3561 / 818-3581 759-2970 con.manila@maec.es Taiwan 41F Tower 1, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Ave., 1200 Makati City (632) 887-6688 phl@moga.gov.tw Thailand 107 Rada St. (Thailand St.), Legazpi Vill., 1252 Makati City P.O. Box 1228, Makati Central Post Metro Manila (632) 815-4219/20 / 816-0696/7 adminmnl@pldtdsl.net thaimnl@pacific.net.ph UK 120 Upper McKinley Road McKinley Hill, 1634 Taguig City (632) 858-2200 manilavisaenquiries @fco.gov.uk USA 1201 Roxas Blvd., 1000 Manila (632) 301-2000 / 2555 / 2246 http://manila.usembassy. gov.wwwhcont.html Vietnam 670 Pablo Ocampo St. (formerly Vito Cruz St.) Malate, Manila 525-2837 / 521-6843 sqvnplp@qinet.net

LOCAL AIRLINES

Interisland Airlines Inc. Interisland Airlines Hangar Andrews Avenue, Pasay City (632) 852-8010 to 12 (632) 852-8013 info@interislandairlines.com Air Asia/Zest Air Domestic Road cor. Andrews Ave., Pasay City (632) 742-2742 Monday to Sunday 7am-11pm (GMT+8)

INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES Thai Airways Limited Room Passenger Terminal 1 Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Formerly Sucat Road) Parañaque City (632) 834-0366 to 68 mnlairport@thaiairways.com.ph Japan Airlines 2nd Floor, 6788 Ayala Avenue, Oledan Square, Makati City (632) 403-2763 American Airlines Lower Lobby Century Park Hotel P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila (632) 524-8625 / 400-5988 British Airways GF 135 Filipino Merchants Bldg. Legaspi cor. Dela Rosa St. Legaspi Village, Makati City (632) 817-0361 Asiana Airlines 6F The Salcedo Tower 169 Dela Costa Street Salcedo Vill., Makati City (632) 793-6888 (for reservations) (632) 793-6868 (for sales) Air New Zealand 10F Rufino Pacific Tower 6784 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 632) 856-1423 Jet Airways 9F The Athenaeum Bldg. 160 L.P.Levisite St., Salcedo Vill. 1227 Makati City

Australia Level 23-Tower 2 RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave. 1200 Makati City (632) 757-8100 manila.consular@dfat.gov.au

Korea 122 Upper McKinely Road McKinely Town Center Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City (632) 856-9210 philippines@mofa.go.kr

CebuPacific Airlines Ailine Operations Center Domestic Airport, Pasig City (632) 851-8769 / 290-5242 (632) 7020-888 (Manila) (6332) 230-8888 (Cebu)

Austria 4th floor, Prince Building 117 Thailand Street (formerly Rada St.) Legazpi Vill., P.O. Box 2411 MCC PO Makati City, Metro Manila (632) 817-9191 / 817-4992 817-4993 manila-ob@bmeia.gv.at

Kuwait 8th Floor, Total Corporate Ctr. (opposite Villa Kalayaan) Kalayaan Ave. cor. Triangle Dr. Bonifacio Global City Taguig City (632) 556-38614 marybeth_ortua@hotmail.com

AirPhil Express (Main Office) PNB Financial Center Diosdado Macapagal Ave. CCP Complex, Pasay City (02) 320-8300 (Customer Service— For ticketing, booking and rebooking concerns) (632) 855-9000 (Manila) (6332) 505-1616 (Cebu) reservations@ airphilexpress.com

China Airlines GF Unit-1 Golden Empire Tower 1322 Roxas Blvd. cor. Padre Faura St., Ermita, Manila (632) 354-6700 to 09 (Reservation) (632) 354-6713/14

Island Tranvoyager Inc Andrews Avenue Domestic Airport, Pasay City (632) 851-5674

Emirates 18th Level, Pacific Star Bldg. Gil Puyat cor. Makati Avenue Makati City (632) 858-5300

Belgium Multinational Bancorporation Centre, 9th Floor6805 Ayala Ave., Makati City (632) 845-1869 / 845-1873 manila@diplobel.fed.be Brazil 16th floor, Liberty Center 104 H.V. de la Costa St. Salcedo Vill., 1227 Makati City (632) 845-3651 to 53 brasemb@info.com.ph Brunei 11th Floor, Ayal Wing BPI Building, Ayala Avenue cor. Paseo de Roxas, Makati City (632) 816-2836 to 38 manila.philippines@mfa.gov.bn Canada Level 6 to 8, Tower 2 RCBC Plaza, Makati City (632) 857-9000 / 857-9001 manil@international.gc.ca manil-cs@international.gc.ca

Mexico 2157 Paraiso Street Dasmariñas Village, Makati City (632) 812-2211 / 812-2212 812-2213 ebmexfil@info.com.ph Netherlands 26F Equitable Tower PCI Bank Tower 8751 Paseo de Roxas Makati City (632) 786-6666 man@minbuza.nl Pakistan 6F Alexander House 132 Amorsolo Street Legazpi Village, Makati City (632) 817-2772/6 parepmnl@info.com.ph parep@info.com.ph Russia 1245 Acacia Road Dasmariñas Vill., Makati City (632) 893-0190 / 817-5406 rusemb@i-manila.com.ph

Island Aviation Inc. A. Soriano Hangar Andrews Avenue, Pasay City (632) 833-3855 (632) 852-0508 iai@islandaviationph.com info@islandaviationph.com Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR) 2nd Floor, Lerose Bldg. No 832 Arnaiz Ave. cor. Paseo de Roxas, 1223 Makati City (632) 849-0101 (SEAIR Call Ctr.) Philippines Airlines Manager-Customer Relations PO Box 1344, Makati City (632) 855-8888 (Reservations)

Cathay Pacific Airways (632) 757-0888 (632) 757-0111 (Dragonair) MNL#DS@cathaypacific.com

Eva Airways 23rd Floor, LKG Tower 6801 Ayala Ave., Makati City (632) 753-1383 (632) 884-1142

Finnair Citiland 10 Tower II H.V. Dela Costa Street Salcedo Vill, 1200 Makati City (632) 892-2701 Korean Air GF LPL Plaza 124 Alfaro Street Salcedo Village, Makati City (632) 815-8911 / 815-9261 (632) 789-3700 (Korean Air Reservation Call Center, Mla.) (632) 817-6668 / 789-3714 to 16 (Korean Air Regional Ticket Office, Mla.)

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 39F Yuchengco Tower RCBC Plaza, Gil Puyat cor. Ayala Ave., 1200 Makati City (632) 588-6900

PHONE

MOBILE

FA X

WEBSITE

BUS TERMINAL

DESTINATION

Qatar Airways GF One Global Place 5th Avenue cor. 25th Street Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City (632) 519-1888 Qantas Airways Limited HT&T Travel Philippines 10F Salustiana D Ty Towers 104 Paseo de Roxas Legaspi Village, Makati City (632) 812-0607 Gulf Air Unit 8, GF Solemare Parksuites 5 Bradco Ave., Aseana Business Park, Macapagal Boulevard, Para単aque City (632) 869-7599 (6320) 831-9655 Delta Airlines Travel 9F Athenaeum Building 160 LP Leviste Street Salcedo Village, Makati City (632) 841-9800 Royal Brunei Airlines Global Air Services Corp. (Sub GSA) 2F Miascor Cargo Center Ninoy Aquino Avenu, Para単aque City (632) 851-9631 / 851-9645

Budget Rent A Car Manila 5/F Suite 503 La Paz Centre Building Salcedo Street cor. V.A Rufino St., Legaspi Village, 1229 Makati City www.budget.com.ph Gemini Transport Services Inc. 433 B Francisco Street New Zaniga, Mandaluyong (632) 531-1439 www.geminitransport.com Viajero Rent A Car Philippines 401-B, 4F RCI Building 105 Rada St., Legazpi Village, Makati City (632) 546-6742 / 836-7997 Basic Taxi (Radio Call) Lot 4 Market Avenue Basic Compound, Pasig City (632) 374-7505 / (632) 643-7777 Manila Car Rental of The Philippines P. Burgos Elementary School, Altura, Manila (0917) 945-9523 manilacarrental. wordpress.com National Car Rental Philippines 5032 P. Burgos Street 1200 Makati City (632) 897-9023 / 890-3252 www.nationalcarph.ukf.net www.nationalcar.com/fleet. do?countryId=PH

Malaysian Airlines 23rd Level, LKG Tower, Ayala Ave. Salcedo Village, Makati City Nissan Rent A Car (632) 887-3215 / 889-2347 2317 Aurora Boulevard 843-6674 (formerly Tramo), Pasay City (632) 854-7099 / 854-8331 Singapore Airlines 854-6941 33F LKG Tower, 6801 Ayala Ave. (632) 852-6599 1226 Makati City nissanreservation@ (632) 756-8888 nissanrentacar.com www.nissanrentacar.com United Airlines 10F Rufino Building, Ayala Ave. Safari Rent A Car Philippines cor. Rufino Street, Makati City (Makati Station) (632) 884-8272 1839 Eureka Street La Paz Village, Makati City Vietnam Airlines (632) 890-7851 / 890-3606 GF Colonnade Residence Bldg. 899-2942 / 896-5927 / 896-4196 132 Palanca cor. Legaspi St., (0922) 890-3006 Legaspi Vill., Makati City. (632) 899-2304 (632) 810-3406 / 810-3653 info@safarirentacarinc.com 893-2083 www.safarirentacarinc.com (632) 812-2743 (Sta. Rosa, Laguna Station) Unit 23A, 2F Paseo 3 South African Airways Paseo de Sta. Rosa Complex 21F Tower 2, The Enterprise Ctr. Sta. Rosa, Laguna 6766 Ayala Ave., Makati City (632) 994-9227 (Manila Direct) (632) 884-8129 to 30 (049) 541-1958 (632) 884-8224/27 (049) 541-1959 0915-6215797 Swissair (Calamba, Laguna Station) GF Zuellig Building, 15 Regalena Building Malugay St., Makati City 9049 National Highway 818-8351 / 818-8521 Baranggay Turbina 815-3350 Calamba, Laguna (632) 359-4924 (Manila Direct) Lufthansa (German Airlines) (049) 545-2588 Legaspi Parkview Condominium (049) 545-9675 134 Legaspi Street 0915-6861433 Legaspi Vill., Makati City (Cavite Station) (632) 810-4596 36 Governors Drive (632) 812-9463 Baranggay Manggahan Gen. Trias, Cavite (632) 330-9065 (046) 402-0394 CAR RENTAL (046) 509-2076 AND TAXI SERVICES 0915-6269465 Philippine Car Rental, Manila 52 Libertad Street, Mandaluyong City (632) 718-4064 www.carrentalmanila.com 24/7 Taxi Services (632) 640-2318 / 642-3525 Avis Philippines (632) 584-2463 / 584-2464 reservations@avis.com.ph www.avis.com.ph

karen.santos@aboextravel.com Aerospeed karen_aboextravel@yahoo.com (632) 652-3346 www.manilarentacar.com/ index.php Allied Car Charter www.aboextravel.com 9687 Pililla cor. D. Oleman St. J.P. Rizal Santiago Village Sunshine Transportation 1201 Makati City and Car Rentals (632) 897-5658 Nayong Pilipino Complex (632) 897-5658 1301 Pasay City (632) 832-8738 Aries Rent-A-Car (632) 832-8736 77 Harvard, 1100 Quezon City (632) 912-4287 Black & White Car and Limousine Hire Auto Speed 411 A. Flores Street Transport Services Ermita, Manila Auro Vir Plaza Building (632) 523-8541 1695 Evangelista cor. Lacuna St. bookings@swaggy.com 1200 Makati City www.swaggy.com/r (632) 811-3992 / 837-3201 ent-a-car.php 843-3461 / 843-4505 / 843-6540 Dollar Taxi (632) 927-8718 / 921-2383 www.dollar.com Global One Taxi (632) 480-9144 (0927) 771-2034 MGE Taxi (Radio Call) (632) 364-8260 / 363-6096 Reno Taxi (632) 931-3272 / 931-2681 Filcar Transport Rent a Car 1092 Chino Roces Ave. Brgy. Tejeros, Makati City (Makati Office) P27 Yulo Plaza Townhomes 226 Don Bosco cor. Pasong Tamo, Makati City (632) 897-3011 / 817-8346 994-7481 (632) 843-3530 info@filcartransport.com www.filcartransport.com Transroad Rent A Car (0919) 243-4392 (within Manila) (0919) 243-4392 (Within the Philippines but out of Manila) 011-63-91-9243-4392 (USA direct) 0063-91-9243-4392 (Most other countries) www.transroad.ukf.net Tai Taxi (Radio Call) (632) 772-2715 Trends Taxi (Radio Call) (632) 822-9345 / 823-8951 Xavier Taxi (Radio Call) (632) 788-0204 / 826-1769 JB Rent A Car Midland Plaza Hotel Adriatico St., Manila (632) 526-6288 www.jbrentacar.com KEI Transport GF Palm Plaza Hotel Pedro Gil Street cor. M. Adriatico St., Manila (632) 524-6834 A and M Car Service 1201 MCS Tower 2154 Pasong Tamo St. Bangkal, Makati City (632) 809-971 / 813-3810

Rent A Car Manila Ortigas Extension Sta. Lucia, Pasig City Telephone Number (632) 656-5798 info@rentacarmanila.com www.rentacarmanila.com

Ace Car Rental 3839 General Macabulos Estella St. cor. South Super Highway, Makati City (632) 889-0180 / 889-0181 889-0187 (632) 889-0187 / 889-1756 acecar@info.com.ph

ManilaRentACar (632) 246-1508 / 246-1518 (Manila Lines) (6377) 722-6491 / 632-0396 (Local Lines) (0917) 570-0279

Advantage Discount Car Rental Intercontinental Hotel Ayala Ave., 1200 Makati City (632) 815-8316 (632) 813-7505

AutoWorld Rent A Car and Co. 1782 Nicanor Garcia 1200 Makati City (632) 896-8325

JAM Transit Taft Avenue, Pasay City New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Batangas / Quezon / Laguna (632) 541-4409 / 924-7712 831-4390 Maria de Leon Transit Dapitan cor. Gelinos St., Sampaloc, Manila. San Fernando City, La Union Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (632) 731-4907. Partas Transportation Aurora Blvd., Cubao, Q.C. Baguio City, Benguet Bangued City, Abra Laoag City, Ilocos Norte San Fernando City, La Union Vigan City, Ilocos Sur (632) 725-7303 / 724-9820

Philippine Rabbit Edsa, Quezon City Bangued City, Abra Avalon Rent-A-Car Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2965 Kakarong St., 1200 Makati City San Fernando City, La Union (632) 890-8667 / 890 8668 Vigan City, Ilocos Sur (632) 890 8668 Tarlac avalon@fatinet.org (632) 734-9836 / 734-9838 G & S Travel and Tours 11 San Buena Bldg. 2 Shaw Blvd., Pasig City (632) 634-1178 / 636-0895 633-2407 (632) 634-1799 gnstrave@guevent.com

BUS COMPANIES Alps, The Bus Incorporated Iloilo to Cubao Batangas / Alabang / Iloilo Lipa / Cubao / Kamias Capiz / Antique (643) 723-9033 (0917) 504-6042 Baliwag Transit Rizal Ave., Ext., Caloocan City Edsa, Cubao, Q.C. Bulacan / Cabanatuan / Aparri Tuguegarao / Tarlac (632) 364-0860 / 363-4478 0912-3343 / 0912-3349 Dagupan Bus Lines New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Dagupan, Alaminos, Lingayen, Pangasinan / Baguio City (632) 727-2330 / 929-6123 928-5639 / 727-2330 / 727-2287 Dangwa Tranco Company Dimasalang Street Sampaloc, Manila / Aurora Blvd., Cubao, Q.C. Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region (632) 731-2879 / 410-1991 Dominion Transit New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Abra / La Union / Ilocos Sur (632) 741-4146 / 731-4180 Fari単as Transit Company Laong Laan cor. M. dela Fuente St., Sampaloc, Manila Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (632) 731-4507 / (632) 731-4375 743-8580 DLTB Malibay, Pasay City (632) 855-8040 / 855-8071 484-7449 Five Star Bus Company (First North Luzon and Bataan Transit) Aurora Boulevard, Pasay City Dagupan and Bolinao, Pangasinan / Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija (632) 833-8339 / 833-3009

Philtranco Edsa, Pasay City Daet, Camarines Norte Legaspi City, Albay Lucena City, Quezon Naga City, Camarines Sur Sorsogon / Also travels via ferry to Samar, Leyte and Davao City (632) 851-8077 / 851-8078 851-8079 Victory Liner Edsa, Pasay City Edsa, Cubao, Q.C. Rizal Ave., Ext., Caloocan City Olongapo and Iba, Zambales Tarlac, San Fernando City, La Union / Baguio City Benguet / Alaminos, Bolinao and Dagupan City, Pangasinan Tuguegarao and Aparri towns, Cagayan (632) 833-0293 / 833-5019 361-4665/1510/1506 / 741-1439

SHIPPING AND FERRIES WG&A Philippines 12F, Times Plaza Building U.N. cor. Taft Avenue 1000 Manila (632) 528-7979 Sulpicio Lines Inc. (Manila Office) 415 San Fernando St., Binondo, Manila (632) 241-9701 to 07 241-9801 to 05 (Cebu Office) Don Sulpicio Go Building Sulpicio Go Street Reclamation Area Cebu City (632) 232-5361 to 80 (Manila Terminal Office) Pier 12, North Harbor Tondo, Manila (632) 245-0616 to 30 El Greco Jet Ferries Inc. 70 Sgt. E. A. Esguerra Ave. 1107 Quezon City (632) 929-7052 to 54 (632) 921-3354 Negros Navigation Pier 2, North Harbor Tondo, Manila (632) 245-5588 (632) 245-0780 Cebu Ferry Corporation Pier 4 North Reclamation Area Cebu City (6332) 232-4229

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

partingshot

To see the world with my own eyes, and to experience it myself with all my senses, that is the essence of my wanderings. The world does not come to me, I must come to the world, and regard it like a long-lost love, with immeasurable longing and lust. That is why I travel, for when the world loves me back and reveals her intimate, wondrous secrets, my mind cannot contain the joy of the experience.

[

I n t r a m u r o s a n d t h e e v o l v i n g c i t y s c a p e o f M a n i l a . P h o t o g r a p h e d b y A n s o n Yu .

EXPER IENCE TR AV EL A ND LI V ING // Vol. 1 No. 1 // 2014

]